MS Dhoni to Play One Final IPL Season in 2026? Srinivasan’s Return Sparks Thala’s Big Decision
In what could be the biggest development ahead of IPL 2026, reports suggest that MS Dhoni will return to play one final season for Chennai Super Kings (CSK). The legendary wicketkeeper-batter, who turns 45 next year, is reportedly planning to bid farewell to the game by leading CSK in the 2026 edition of the Indian Premier League.
According to a report from Revsportz, Dhoni has been strongly influenced by the return of N. Srinivasan as CSK chairman. The two share a long-standing bond, dating back to Dhoni’s early years with the franchise. Srinivasan was pivotal in CSK’s rise as one of the most successful teams in IPL history, and his comeback at the helm has reportedly encouraged “Thala” to push himself for one final season.
Srinivasan’s Return Fuels Dhoni’s Comeback
For years, speculation has surrounded Dhoni’s final IPL appearance. Even before IPL 2025, many believed the 44-year-old might hang up his boots. However, Dhoni defied retirement calls and took over as captain again last season after Ruturaj Gaikwad’s injury. Unfortunately, CSK endured their worst-ever campaign, finishing last in the table for the first time in their history.
This bitter finish seems to have lit a fire within Dhoni, who is reportedly determined to leave on a high. A sixth IPL trophy remains his ultimate target—a record no team has yet achieved.
Srinivasan’s return as chairman in May, after replacing his cousin R. Srinivasan, along with the appointment of his daughter Rupa Gurunath as wholetime director, has also strengthened Dhoni’s connection with the franchise. Insiders believe that the renewed leadership at CSK is a key factor in Dhoni’s decision to continue.
Dhoni’s Present Life Away From Cricket
At present, Dhoni is enjoying some well-deserved time off in the United States. He was recently spotted at the Arthur Ashe Stadium in New York, where he attended Novak Djokovic’s quarter-final match at the US Open.
While neither Dhoni nor CSK have made any official statement, the reports have ignited massive excitement among fans. If true, IPL 2026 could mark the end of an era, with one of cricket’s greatest captains walking onto the field for one last dance in yellow.
The thought of Dhoni lifting a record sixth IPL trophy as a parting gift to CSK has already sent the fanbase into frenzy. As things stand, the world will wait with bated breath to see if this fairytale ending unfolds.
