IPL 2026: MS Dhoni has been donning the No.7 jersey for the last 20 years. Recently, however, social media buzzed after a photo of a CSK jersey marked with "DHONI" and the No.8 went viral. This sudden shift prompted immediate speculation—was it a new tactic, a superstition, or simply a reference to the eighth season?
Why No. 8? Well, analysts weighed in pretty quickly
Opinions varied. Some believed the photo was simply a promotional stunt or a 'what if' scenario created by a fan or designer, doubting its authenticity. Others recalled that the BCCI retired the No. 7 jersey for the Indian team in 2023 to honour Dhoni, though this did not affect the IPL. In any case, Dhoni's connection to 'Thala 7' is so strong that any switch would seem unlikely.
CSK management? They haven’t said a word. Dhoni himself? Radio silence
Fans joined the conversation, too. For many, "MSD 7" represents more than just a number—it's both a feeling and an unassailable brand. Meanwhile, some joked that seven plus one equals eight might be Dhoni’s clever way of hinting at “just one more year” in the tournament.
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So, are these rumours true? For now, it appears to be a social media gimmick. Unless Dhoni is actually seen wearing the No.8, fans expect him to wear the iconic No.7 jersey in the coming season.
Amid these speculations, it was also clarified that MS Dhoni will play all CSK matches in IPL 2026, as revealed by CSK owner Kasi Vishwanathan. He addressed earlier rumours suggesting Dhoni might play only a few matches. Notably, after stepping down as captain in 2024 and passing the baton to Ruturaj Gaikwad, Dhoni briefly led the team again when Gaikwad got injured.
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Reflecting on the previous season, CSK finished at the bottom of the points table for the first time in tournament history, winning just four out of 14 matches.