Dhoni Confirmed for IPL 2026 Return; CSK Eyes Sanju Samson Trade
Chennai Super Kings (CSK) CEO Kasi Viswanathan has officially confirmed that MS Dhoni will be available for the “next season,” putting an end to speculation and locking in the cricket legend for the 2026 IPL edition.
Viswanathan, described as a long-time backbone of the franchise alongside Dhoni, reiterated the 44-year-old’s commitment. “MS has told us that he will be available for the next season,” the CEO stated, a significant announcement given that questions about Dhoni’s participation have become a recurring theme in recent years.
The decision comes after a disappointing last season for the five-time champions, who finished at the bottom of the table. Dhoni himself had to lead the side in the absence of regular skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad, and it is suggested he may be looking to guide the team back to success before concluding his career “on a high.”
If he plays in 2026, it will mark Dhoni’s 17th season for the franchise and his 19th overall in the IPL since its 2008 launch. His career with CSK includes 248 matches, 4,865 runs, and five championship titles (2010, 2011, 2018, 2021, and 2023).
Trade Talks Reignited
In addition to Dhoni’s return, information has emerged that the “Sanju Samson trade issue is back on the CSK table.” Chennai Super Kings and Rajasthan Royals (RR) have reportedly re-established contact regarding a potential trade.
The deal could involve a “top CSK player” moving to the Royals. It is understood that this player has been contacted to gauge their comfort with the potential move. RR owner Manoj Badale is said to be weighing all options and has also opened channels with other franchises, including Lucknow Super Giants, Kolkata Knight Riders, and Delhi Capitals.
Strategic Planning Underway
Dhoni is reportedly already involved in planning for the upcoming season. Key consultations are expected to take place between November 10 and 11, involving Dhoni, CEO Viswanathan, skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad, and coach Stephen Fleming.
These meetings will be crucial for finalizing decisions, including the potential Samson trade, ahead of the November 15 player retention deadline.
MS Dhoni Career Batting Stats
| Stat | Test | ODI | T20I | IPL |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Matches | 90 | 350 | 98 | 278 |
| Innings | 144 | 297 | 85 | 242 |
| Runs | 4876 | 10773 | 1617 | 5439 |
| Balls Faced | 8248 | 12303 | 1282 | 3957 |
| Highest Score | 224 | 183* | 56 | 84* |
| Batting Average | 38.09 | 50.58 | 37.6 | 38.3 |
| Strike Rate | 59.12 | 87.57 | 126.14 | 137.46 |
| Not Outs | 16 | 84 | 42 | 100 |
| Fours | 544 | 826 | 116 | 375 |
| Sixes | 78 | 229 | 52 | 264 |
| Ducks | 10 | 10 | 1 | 6 |
| 50s | 33 | 73 | 2 | 24 |
| 100s | 6 | 10 | 0 | 0 |