Indian Premier League (IPL) Thrives on the “Thala” factor, and as the 2026 season approaches, the narrative revolves around ms dhoni The fundamentals have shifted from retirement rumors to strategic developments. Despite being 44 years old, Dhoni’s recent return to the nets in Ranchi has created a stir. However, it is a revelation from his former partner and spin magician, Ravichandran AshwinWho has really set the cricket world on fire.
Ravichandran Ashwin reveals where MS Dhoni can bat for CSK in IPL 2026
Dhoni may be abandoning his traditional finisher role to bat at No. 3. This is not just a sentimental move; This is a calculated gamble. Historically, Dhoni has acted as the “ice-man” at the end of the innings. But with the meta-strategy of the game moving towards maximizing the batting powerplay, Ashwin suggests Dhoni is looking to be an “enforcer”. According to Ashwin, who recently retired after his final stint with CSK in 2025, Dhoni’s fitness and recent practice sessions indicate a willingness to take advantage of field restrictions early, as the veteran player has shown. Imran Tahir.
“Dhoni looks ready to play as he has already started practicing. He is looking fit. Some people said that he would not be able to play in the 11, or that it might be his last season. But it seems that he has been motivated after seeing Imran Tahir. Looking at him it does not seem that he will bat at number 9. The way he has started practice, it looks like he will come to bat at number 3 in the powerplay and make the team strong.Ashwin said on his YouTube channel.
For CSK, this move will solve a specific structural problem. In the 2025 season, the Yellow Army struggled and finished at the bottom of the points table. By his standards, Dhoni had a quiet year and scored 196 runs at a strike rate of 135.17. By moving up the order, Dhoni can set the pace without the immediate pressure of increasing required run rates, allowing the young power-hitters to play around his experienced consistency.
Ashwin hails new-look CSK as batting force
While the spotlight remains squarely on Dhoni, Chennai Super Kings have quietly undertaken a “strong reset” during the off-season. acquisition of sanju samson There is a big statement of intent, providing a high-intent anchor to the middle order. Ashwin explains that the depth of this lineup makes them a nightmare for opposition captains.
The projected 2026 batting order is a mix of experienced gold and explosive youth:
- foundation: Ruturaj Gaikwad And sanju samson.
- X-Factor: dewald brevis and hit harder Shivam Dubey.
- Future: youth sensibilities Ayush Mhatre And Prashant Veer.
Ashwin’s analysis highlights that with players like jamie overton providing lower order muscle and Ayush Mhatre Hoping to take their home form to the big stage, CSK are looking to make 200-plus scores a regular occurrence.
“Even at 220 runs it becomes really difficult for teams to stop CSKAshwin said on his YouTube channel, emphasizing that the sheer number of boundary-hitters in this team is unprecedented.