Chennai Super Kings' (CSK) legend MS Dhoni is preparing for another highly anticipated IPL campaign. As the new season kicks off on March 28 with a clash between the defending champions, Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), and Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH), the former Indian captain will once again suit up in the iconic yellow of CSK.
While the veteran superstar is widely expected to transition into retirement following the 2026 season, CSK have already begun laying the groundwork for a new era. The franchise recently appointed Ruturaj Gaikwad as their full-time captain, secured a major trade for Sanju Samson, and integrated several young talents to refresh the roster. These transitions have naturally sparked discussions regarding exactly how Dhoni fits into the current playing XI as the team looks toward the future.
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He still believes 100% that he can play: R Ashwin on MS Dhoni
Despite these shifts, Dhoni’s presence remains a cornerstone of the franchise, offering value that transcends his individual performance as a batter or wicketkeeper. This sentiment is echoed by Indian spin legend Ravichandran Ashwin, who believes Dhoni's spot in the lineup is non-negotiable. For Ashwin, the equation is simple, as long as Dhoni is a member of the CSK squad, his leadership and experience make him an automatic selection for the starting eleven.
“If MS Dhoni is part of the CSK squad, and you are making an XI, there’s no question about whether he should be included. He has to walk into the XI," Ashwin said on his YouTube channel.
“This is the guy who pulled out the stump in Melbourne and quietly retired from Test cricket. If he didn’t want to play in the IPL, he would have retired already. He still believes 100% that he can play. He’s been practising for the past three months. He’s saying, ‘Think whatever you want, but I am going to play.’ That’s the message he’s sending us all. If a player like him wants to play, how can you tell him not to? That’s not possible," Ashwin further stated.
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Here's CSK's full schedule for IPL 2026:
Mar 30 – vs Rajasthan Royals – 7:30 PM – Guwahati
Apr 3 – vs Punjab Kings – 7:30 PM – Chennai
Apr 5 – vs RCB – 7:30 PM – Bengaluru
Apr 11 – vs Delhi Capitals – 7:30 PM – Chennai
Apr 14 – vs KKR – 7:30 PM – Chennai
Apr 18 – vs SRH – 7:30 PM – Hyderabad
Apr 23 – vs Mumbai Indians – 7:30 PM – Mumbai
Apr 26 – vs Gujarat Titans – 3:30 PM – Ahmedabad
May 2 – vs Mumbai Indians – 7:30 PM – Chennai
May 5 – vs Delhi Capitals – 7:30 PM – Delhi
May 10 – vs LSG – 3:30 PM – Chennai
May 15 – vs LSG – 7:30 PM – Lucknow
May 18 – vs SRH – 7:30 PM – Chennai
May 21 – vs GT – 7:30 PM – Chennai