Daijiworld Media Network - Chennai

Chennai, Nov 7: Former India skipper and Chennai Super Kings (CSK) legend Mahendra Singh Dhoni is likely to don the yellow jersey once again in the 2026 edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL). CSK CEO Kasi Viswanathan has expressed optimism that the iconic captain will be part of the team for the upcoming season.

“We are extremely hopeful that he will be playing the next season,” said Viswanathan, hinting that Dhoni’s much-adored IPL journey might continue for yet another year.

Dhoni, who has been the face of CSK since the league’s inception in 2008, has played an instrumental role in the team’s success. Apart from a brief two-year stint with Rising Pune Supergiants when CSK was suspended, the veteran wicketkeeper-batter has been a constant presence for the franchise. If he takes the field in 2026, it will mark his 17th season with CSK and 19th overall in the IPL — a rare feat of longevity and consistency.

Interestingly, Dhoni was retained as an “uncapped player” ahead of the 2025 mega auction, thanks to a new rule allowing Indian cricketers who haven’t played international matches for the past five years to be listed as uncapped. The 44-year-old was retained for Rs 4 crore, alongside teammates Ruturaj Gaikwad (Rs 18 crore), Ravindra Jadeja (Rs 18 crore), Matheesha Pathirana (Rs 13 crore), and Shivam Dube (Rs 12 crore).

Following a disappointing 2024 campaign that saw CSK finish 10th in the table, Dhoni’s leadership and tactical acumen will once again be crucial as the team looks to rebuild and return to its championship form.

Over the years, Dhoni has led CSK to five IPL titles — in 2010, 2011, 2018, 2021, and 2023 — solidifying his legacy as one of the most successful captains in T20 cricket history.

With millions of fans eager for another glimpse of “Thala” in action, Dhoni’s possible return for IPL 2026 is already sparking excitement across the cricketing world.