‘IPL 2026 could be Dhoni’s last’: Former CSK star makes big predictions

MS Dhoni’s future intense pulsed light After former Indian cricketer becomes a major talking point again Robin Uthappa Says IPL 2026 could mark the end of Dhoni’s illustrious career chennai super kings. Speaking on JioHotstar’s TATA IPL: Out or Out of the Park show, Uthappa elaborated on the evolution of Dhoni’s role, the leadership transition within CSK and what the upcoming season means for the franchise icon.According to Uthappa, Dhoni’s role in the upcoming season is expected to change significantly. Rather than being the central figure on the field, he can step back and provide more guidance to Ruturaj as captain.“I don’t think CSK should give leadership responsibilities to Sanju Samson. You have to give Ruturaj Gaikwad It’s time to settle down and be captain. He has been leading the team since 2024. Whatever people say, he is stepping out of MS Dhoni’s shadow. You want him to come out completely and stand on his own side. You want to see what he can create. You want him to lead the team and be on his own when MS isn’t playing, rather than have that overwhelming feeling of being under that energy all the time. So I think you can see Dhoni letting go a little bit more,” Uthappa said Utapa made a bold and emotional prediction about Dhoni’s future, suggesting that the 2026 season could be his farewell. The announcement immediately sparked discussions among fans as Dhoni, one of the greatest captains in IPL history, is approaching the final phase of his career.“IPL 2026 will most likely be his last year in the yellow jersey. I think he has taken on more of a mentor-cum-player role this year. I didn’t see him batting at No. 7. I saw him batting at No. 8. Knowing he is coming out, he wants to wean himself off. I think he will. Only then will we see Ruturaj Gaikwad’s true potential as a captain. Give him a few years. If it doesn’t work, you’re fine. There’s always Sanju Samson in the team to fulfill captaincy duties.“ Robin on Dhoni’s role in CSK

MS Dhoni to participate in IPL 2025

MS Dhoni’s IPL 2025 season is filled with changing responsibilities, flashes of talent and growing questions about his role in the transformation of the Chennai Super Kings. Dhoni enters IPL 2025 primarily as a finisher and wicketkeeper, with reduced batting responsibilities compared to his prime. However, his role changed mid-season with captain Ruturaj Gaikwad missing out due to injury, forcing Dhoni to resume leadership responsibilities.As captain, Dhoni is tasked with guiding a beleaguered CSK side through a tough campaign, balancing leadership with his limited batting role. Dhoni mostly bats in the lower order (No. 7 or below), often coming in the last over. His role is not to set up the innings but to make a quick cameo and finish the game.

Continue to maintain excellent goalkeeping ability

Even at the age of 43, Dhoni still shines behind the stumps. He became the first wicketkeeper in the history of IPL to be dismissed 200 times, achieving a historic milestone and cementing his status as one of the greatest wicketkeepers in the league. However, with the addition of Sanju Samson, the wicketkeeping duties may be handed over to him.