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The biggest question surrounding the next Indian Premier League season is whether MS Dhoni will return to play for the Chennai Super Kings (CSK). Despite battling persistent knee pain, the long-time captain has consistently prioritised his team, leading them to five championships. However, with CSK finishing at the bottom of the points table in IPL 2025, it remains uncertain if Dhoni will continue as a player.
MS Dhoni Reacts to fan’s plea for IPL 2026 return in trademark style
Dhoni recently addressed the speculation about his future at a public event. While discussing his plans, the 2011 World Cup-winning captain stated that he still has plenty of time to make a decision about playing in the IPL 2026 edition. His comments have left fans and pundits alike waiting to see if he will don the yellow jersey for one more season.
“I don't know whether I'll play or not. I have time to decide. I have some time until December, so I'll take another couple of months, and then finally, I can make my decision,” said Dhoni while interacting with the host.
This brief but powerful exchange occurred when a fan enthusiastically shouted, "You have to play, sir," interrupting a moment to voice their strong desire for MS Dhoni's return.
Responding to questions about his future, MS Dhoni addressed his ongoing knee pain with a characteristic touch of wit. "Arre, ghutne me jo dard hota hai uska take care kaun karega? (The pain I have in my knees, who will take care of that?)" Dhoni replied.
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Following CSK's title triumph in 2023, Dhoni underwent knee surgery in Mumbai. He had been managing the injury throughout the season and chose to have the procedure after the tournament to give himself ample time to recover before the start of the 2024 season. His knee injury has been a factor in his batting position in the last two IPL seasons, as he has consistently batted lower down the order due to a decrease in his speed between the wickets.
In the IPL 2025 season, Dhoni was forced to step in as the stand-in captain after Ruturaj Gaikwad was ruled out midway through the tournament with a hairline fracture in his elbow. Unfortunately, Dhoni was unable to turn the team's fortunes around, and the five-time champions finished at the bottom of the points table. Recently, both Dhoni and Gaikwad have been in discussions with CSK officials in Chennai to strategise for the upcoming IPL 2026 season.
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