MS Dhoni isn’t done with Indian Premier League yet.
In an interaction at a recent event, the former India and Chennai Super Kings (CSK) captain was asked about his future in the tournament.
He expressed that even if he isn’t playing for much longer, his attachment to the franchise certainly isn’t going anywhere.
“Me and CSK, we are together,” Dhoni said. “You know, even for the next 15-20 years. I hope they don’t think I’ll be playing for another 15-20 years.”
It drew laughter, maybe even some relief. For fans who’ve followed CSK since the start, Dhoni has been more than just a cricketer.
At 44, he’s still deeply identified with the yellow jersey he’s worn since the IPL began in 2008.
He stepped down from captaincy in 2024, passing it to Ruturaj Gaikwad. But when Gaikwad went down with injury midway through the 2025 season, Dhoni returned to lead again.
It was a rough year. It was a miserable season for CSK, who won only 4 of 14 matches to finish last on the table. In 14 games, a rare low-order batting performance for Dhoni (as low as No. 9 in some matches) produced 196 runs. His strike rate was 135.17.
Not exactly vintage Dhoni. And I mean, there were definitely a couple of games that the finisher could not finish
When he talked, though, he still didn’t sound like a guy who was ready to tut-tut tut and walk away too dignified.
Dhoni responded: “It’s not a one year or two year thing. He said, “Be it always be sitting in a yellow jersey.”
It wasn’t just a game for Dhoni though. He was recalling how the franchise had been the most persistent force in every aspect of his life since he can remember. “It’s a relationship that has matured over the years,” he said, saying it was helpful in his evolution “as a human” and “as a cricketer”.
Also Read: MS Dhoni Confident Ruturaj Gaikwad’s Return Will Strengthen CSK in IPL 2026
CSK hasn’t performed well the last couple of years. Even Dhoni admits that.
“Yes, the last couple of years have not been good for us. We have not been up to the mark.”
But he also pointed out that failure brings lessons. CSK, for all their problems, still holds five IPL titles under his leadership.
As for what’s next? He didn’t give a straight answer. Reports after IPL 2025 suggested he may return as a player in 2026. Nothing is confirmed.
It’s possible Dhoni’s on-field role will shrink further. Or maybe this was the last time we saw him behind the stumps.
But what’s almost certain—he’s not leaving CSK. Not anytime soon.
