IPL 2026: All eyes are on MS Dhoni as IPL 2026 approaches, with fans and pundits alike questioning whether this will be his final season with the Chennai Super Kings. The legendary captain’s future and possible farewell have become the biggest talking points heading into the tournament.

As IPL 2026 approaches, uncertainty looms over Chennai Super Kings' star wicket-keeper batter MS Dhoni. Will this be his farewell IPL season? How impactful will his role be for a revamped CSK team? Or could Dhoni be sidelined for key matches?

As usual, Dhoni has avoided public comment on his future, consistent with his 20-year approach.

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He attended the pre-season camp in Chennai, appearing in top form in CSK's social media updates.

Dhoni is set to bat in the lower-middle order this season. Last year, his highest position was No.5, with two innings at No.9. He scored 196 runs from 13 innings at a strike rate of 135.17.

Given CSK's evolving team strategy, Dhoni's on-field role may shrink further, raising questions about the impact of retaining him primarily for sentimental reasons rather than strategic ones.

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Newcomer Sanju Samson will open with Ayush Mhatre. Ruturaj Gaikwad, Dewald Brevis, and Shivam Dube will fill the middle order.

Prashant Veer and Kartik Sharma, acquired at last year's auction, are likely in the XI. Dhoni could bat at No.8 as a result.

However, if this batting lineup is used, it could limit CSK to three specialist bowlers in the playing XI, since an additional bowler would need to be brought in as an impact player, potentially weakening the team's overall bowling.

It is unlikely CSK will use Dhoni solely as an impact wicket-keeper. Despite a dip in batting, his wicket-keeping remains strong.

CSK risks prioritizing sentiment over strategy by retaining Dhoni in a limited role. This decision could affect their competitive edge and playoff chances, as emotional choices may outweigh team context.

CSK faces an unusual challenge: balancing the drive to win with honoring Dhoni's legacy. Rarely does a top franchise risk competition for sentiment, making this season pivotal.

CSK's brand value is another reason to consider moving past Dhoni. Though no longer captain, he remains the face of the franchise, with a huge fan following supporting CSK.

Bringing in Samson, who also has a large fan base, could allow Dhoni to step aside.

With a strong core and a clear replacement, CSK seems to set the stage for Dhoni's final season, possibly relegating him to a symbolic, reduced role.