The question around Chennai Super Kings and MS Dhoni is getting serious in IPL 2026. With Dhoni not playing matches this season so far, many are asking whether the team should start planning for the future without him.
Here is a simple look at the numbers, performance, and current situation.
Current Situation of CSK
CSK have not had a strong start this season.
| Matches | Wins | Losses | Position |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 2 | 4 | Lower half |
The team is struggling to stay in the playoff race, and the absence of Dhoni has added to the discussion.
Dhoni’s Reduced Role in Recent Years
Dhoni has been dealing with fitness issues in recent seasons.
- Played IPL 2023 with a knee problem
- Underwent surgery after that season
- Batting role has become very limited
- Has not played in IPL 2026 so far
In the last three years, he has faced very few balls overall.
| Matches | Balls Faced | Avg Balls per Match |
|---|---|---|
| 44 | 275 | 6.25 |
This shows he usually bats for a very short time in matches.
Batting Positions and Performance
Dhoni has mostly batted at number 7, 8, or 9.
| Position | Innings | Runs | Average | Strike Rate | Dot Ball % |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 25 | 444 | 34.2 | 133.7 | 37.3 |
| 8 | 14 | 236 | 47.2 | 173.5 | 33.1 |
| 9 | 3 | 31 | 15.5 | 147.6 | 47.6 |
These numbers show that while he still scores runs at times, his impact is not as consistent as before.
Season-Wise Performance (2020–2025)
| Season | Matches | Runs | Average | Strike Rate | 50s |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 | 14 | 196 | 24.50 | 135.17 | 0 |
| 2024 | 14 | 161 | 53.66 | 220.54 | 0 |
| 2023 | 16 | 104 | 26.00 | 182.45 | 0 |
| 2022 | 14 | 232 | 33.14 | 123.40 | 1 |
| 2021 | 16 | 114 | 16.28 | 106.54 | 0 |
| 2020 | 14 | 200 | 25.00 | 116.27 | 0 |
The numbers show that his performances have been up and down, with fewer big innings.
Also See : Steve Smith Praises Sahibzada Farhan After Multan Sultans Win in PSL 2026
Expert Opinion
Former India cricketer Sanjay Manjrekar shared his views on this topic.
He said that Dhoni is finding it harder to make a big impact now. He also pointed out that short cameos of a few balls are often praised a lot, even when they don’t change the match much.
He added that teams like CSK sometimes rely too much on experienced players due to emotional reasons.
Impact on Young Players
One major concern is the growth of young players.
- CSK have young talents like Kartik Sharma
- Prashant Veer is another player waiting for chances
- Keeping senior players in the XI may limit opportunities
Giving game time to young players could help CSK build a stronger future team.
What Should CSK Do?
CSK management has a big decision to make.
- Continue with Dhoni for experience and leadership
- Or focus on young players for long-term success
Both options have their pros and cons.
Conclusion
MS Dhoni has been one of the greatest players and leaders for CSK. His contribution to the team’s success is huge.
But in modern T20 cricket, teams need players who can contribute consistently for longer periods in matches.
CSK now face a balance between respecting a legend and preparing for the future. The final decision will shape the team’s direction in the coming seasons.
