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Even years after his retirement from international cricket, MS Dhoni’s popularity remains unmatched among fans. Even at the age of 44, Indian cricket fans are waiting to catch a glimpse of the former captain playing for Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in the ongoing IPL 2026 season.
Due to a calf muscle injury, MSD has not been included in the IPL 2026 matches yet. It is not clear whether he will play this year or not. But, keeping in mind the popularity and legacy, Abhishek Bachchan, co-owner of the European T20 Premier League, would love to see the former Indian captain in the upcoming T20 franchise league in Europe.
Will MS Dhoni play outside India?
The cricket market is expanding under the supervision of the International Cricket Council (ICC). Italy was also included among the teams qualifying for the 2026 T20 World Cup. The rise of Italy is a milestone in cricket history.
The idea behind the European T20 Premier League is to encourage the cricketers of Europe. Through this league, local talents will be able to showcase their skills. To make the tournament attractive and popular among cricket fans, the league officials are likely to confirm several key signings.
Why is MS Dhoni important for European T20 League?
India is the powerhouse of cricket at present. But due to BCCI guidelines, no active Indian cricketer will be able to participate in any other franchise league outside India. Indian cricketers like MS Dhoni, who has retired from international cricket, can play outside the country.
If Abhishek Bachchan and company can bring MS Dhoni on board for the inaugural season of the league, it would be a huge thing for them. Abhishek directly says that he would love to sign the former Indian captain.
When Bachchan was asked about his dream Indian signing for the ETPL, he was quick to reply to PTI, “Mahendra Singh Dhoni.”
“We would have loved to have (current) Indian cricketers be a part of the ETPL. But as we all know, under contract with the BCCI, Indian cricketers are not allowed to play outside the IPL. We will miss him. It would have been amazing to have him. Outside the Indian talent pool, we have the rest of the great cricketers in the world coming and playing in the ETPL. So, I think we will be fine,” he further explained.
Many veterans have already joined the league
The Bollywood star also clarified that all the franchises in the newly established franchise league will have to ensure local and European talent in the team, who will play alongside some of the greatest players in the game.
He said, “The idea is to create a funnel for local talent to come and play. Each team should have local talent as well as European players and they get a chance to play alongside some of the greats of the game.”
Former cricketers like Rahul Dravid, Steve Waugh, Jonty Rhodes and Glenn Maxwell have joined the league as franchise owners.
Read More: MS Dhoni Update: CSK legend hints at playing against Rishabh Pant’s LSG in IPL 2026
