IPL 2026: Chennai Super Kings star wicket-keeper batter MS Dhoni challenged the patience of his fans throughout the ongoing season. The team has played 13 matches so far, and the ex-skipper has not participated in a single one, as he was not even listed among the impact players. Although the team management repeatedly cited injuries as a reason to keep him out of the playing XI, according to multiple media reports, Dhoni preferred not to disrupt the XI that has kept their playoff hopes alive.
But now, according to a new report, he may finally depart from the Chennai-based franchise after the ongoing season. As per a CricBlogger report, he will not represent this team beyond this year. “The relationship between Dhoni and CSK has deteriorated to such an extent that Thala will not be seen in yellow after the 2026 IPL," a source was quoted as saying to CricBlogger, casting a shadow of disappointment over fans and players who cherished his leadership.
Even after fully recovering, he chose not to play because he didn't want to disrupt the team's chemistry. This decision followed a calf muscle injury he sustained before the season began. But according to the report, other issues also surfaced, such as conflicting opinions and a long-term strategy to replace veteran players, which significantly shaped the situation.
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The team management disclosed that it has not considered Dhoni's suggestions in the last two seasons. He disagreed with some of the transfer strategies involving Ravindra Jadeja and Sanju Samson, as these decisions unfolded without his consultation. The team management has committed to building a younger team for the upcoming seasons. “They ignored Dhoni completely this year, which irked him a lot," the source concluded, capturing the hurt and frustration that built up inside him.
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It marked the first time in his IPL career that Dhoni remained out of every match for the entire season. The report further highlighted that he clashed with a senior CSK official. Despite these issues, he traveled with the side but chose to stay in the hotel during match days, allowing the youngsters to showcase their talent.