as Chennai Super Kings (CSK) fit pod fans got both a reassurance and a reality check as they prepare for the upcoming edition of the IPL. While CSK CEO Kasi Viswanathan has confirmed that MS Dhoni will be available for the upcoming season, multiple reports confirm that the 44-year-old legend will not feature in every game.
Top reasons why MS Dhoni will not be present in every match of IPL 2026
1. Fitness and workload management at 44
The main reason for Dhoni’s under-participation is the physical demands of the game at his age. Dhoni, who turns 45 in July 2026, has been managing persistent knee and back problems in recent seasons. Controlling in tightly packed IPL fixtures – often with minimal turnaround time between matches – can take a significant toll on his body.
A senior CSK official spilled the beans on the franchise’s approach: “We can confirm that he (Dhoni) has arrived in Chennai and has confirmed his availability for the season. Whether he will play all the games, we cannot say right now.” The team management is expected to use Dhoni selectively throughout the long tournament to manage these physical demands.
2. Sanju Samson’s arrival provides reliable cover
The acquisition of Sanju Samson in a high-profile trade from Rajasthan Royals has changed CSK’s wicketkeeping options. With Samson in the squad, CSK have a ready-made first-choice wicketkeeper who can comfortably pick up the gloves when Dhoni is rested.
CSK’s closed-back depth goes beyond Samson. Along with the 19-year-old, the franchise also has Urvil Patel as a backup Karthik Sharma – A ₹ 14.20 crore hire groomed as a future finisher along with Shivam Dube, this embarrassment of riches behind the stumps gives CSK the tactical flexibility to protect Dhoni for high-impact situations without upsetting the team balance.
3. The impact player rule reduces Dhoni’s batting workload
The Impact Player rule, which has been in place for the last two IPL seasons, has fundamentally changed Dhoni’s role in the team. His appearances were mostly limited to situational cameos in the death overs and was not widely sought after as a batsman in the middle overs.
This reduced batting workload allowed Dhoni to conserve energy while providing an indispensable presence in the field. The team management is likely to continue with this approach in IPL 2026, deploying Dhoni primarily as a short-run finisher instead of expecting him to bowl long shots.
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Chepauk guarantee: Dhoni will play all matches at home
While rotation is expected throughout the season, one factor seems certain: Dhoni will be present for all the home matches at the MA Chidambaram Stadium. His presence at Chepauk remains an emotional and commercial draw, with the crowd’s energy often changing gears as soon as he takes to the field in CSK’s favour.
As IPL 2026 approaches, fans can expect to see Thala in yellow – maybe not in every match. The strategy represents a reasonable balance between maximizing Dhoni’s impact and ensuring the 44-year-old legend remains fresh at the most important moments.
Also READ: EXPLANATION: Why CSK legend MS Dhoni was forced to pay INR 10 Lakh by Madras High Court?
