As Chennai Super Kings (CSK) Prepare for the upcoming IPL edition, Whistle Podu fans have got both reassurance and a reality check. While CSK CEO Kasi Vishwanathan has confirmed that MS Dhoni will be available for the upcoming season, multiple reports confirm that the 44-year-old veteran will not be involved in every game.
Primary reasons due to which MS Dhoni will not attend every game of IPL 2026
1. Fitness and workload management at 44
The biggest reason for Dhoni’s low participation is the physical demands of the game at his age. Dhoni, who turns 45 in July 2026, has been battling persistent knee and back problems in recent seasons. Wicketkeeping in tightly packed IPL fixtures – often with minimal time off between matches – can take a significant toll on his body.
A senior CSK official opened up on the franchise’s approach: “We can confirm that he [Dhoni] Coming to Chennai and has confirmed his availability for the season. We cannot say right now whether he will play all the matches or not. The team management is expected to use Dhoni selectively during the long tournament to manage these physical demands.
2. Sanju Samson’s arrival provides reliable cover
The acquisition of Sanju Samson from Rajasthan Royals in a high-profile trade has changed CSK’s wicketkeeping options. Now with Samson’s arrival in the team, CSK has a ready-made first-choice wicketkeeper who can easily handle the captaincy if Dhoni is rested.
CSK’s wicketkeeping depth extends beyond Samson. The franchise also has a backup with 19-year-old Urvil Patel Karthik Sharma – A ₹14.20 crore recruit who is being groomed as a future finisher along with Shivam Dubey, this embarrassment of riches behind the stumps gives CSK the tactical flexibility to preserve Dhoni for high-impact situations without compromising the team’s balance.
3. Impact player rule reduces Dhoni’s batting workload
The Impact Player rule, which has been in effect for the last two IPL seasons, has fundamentally changed Dhoni’s role in the team. He has not been much needed as a batsman in the middle overs, with his presence largely restricted to situational cameos in the death overs.
This reduced batting workload has allowed Dhoni to conserve energy while providing an invaluable presence on the field. The team management is likely to continue this approach in IPL 2026, with Dhoni being deployed primarily as a finisher in the shorter duration rather than expected to bat in longer innings.
Also read: CSK player Rahul Chahar announces separation from wife Ishani Johar ahead of IPL 2026
Chepauk Guarantee: Dhoni will play all the matches on home ground
While rotation is expected throughout the season, one factor appears to be certain: Dhoni will feature in all home matches at the MA Chidambaram Stadium. His presence in Chepauk remains an emotional and commercial attraction, with the energy of the crowd often changing the momentum in CSK’s favor when he takes to the field.
As IPL 2026 approaches, fans can expect to see Thala in yellow – perhaps not in every single match. This strategy represents a sensible balance between maximizing Dhoni’s impact and ensuring that the 44-year-old veteran remains fresh for the moments that matter most.
Also read: Explanation – Why has CSK legend MS Dhoni been ordered to pay Rs 10 lakh by Madras High Court?
