Indian Premier League (IPL) It thrives on the ‘Thala’ factor and as the 2026 season approaches, the surrounding narrative MS Dhoni from retirement rumors to a radical tactical evolution. Dhoni’s return to the nets in Ranchi, despite being 44, caused a frenzy. But this is a revelation from his former teammate and spin wizard, Ravichandran Ashwinit really set the cricket world on fire.
Ravichandran Ashwin reveals where MS Dhoni might bat for CSK in IPL 2026
Dhoni can play the traditional finishing role at No.3. This is not just a sentimental act; it’s a calculated gamble. Historically, Dhoni has operated as an ‘ice man’ at the back end of the innings. But with the meta-strategy of the game shifting towards maximizing the power play, Ashwin suggests that Dhoni wants to be a “spiritualist”. According to Ashwin, who recently hung up his boots after his last training session with CSK in 2025, Dhoni’s fitness and recent training sessions indicate his willingness to take early advantage of the field’s limitations, as does the longevity shown by the veteran. Imran Tahir.
“Dhoni is getting ready to play as he has already started training. It seems appropriate. Some said he might not play in the 11 or that this could be his last season. But it seems Imran was encouraged to see Tahir. Looking at him, he doesn’t look like he’s going to hit the 9th. Looks like he will come in to bat at No. 3 in the Powerplay and will be as effective as he has started training.“, Ashwin said on his YouTube channel.
For CSK, this move would solve a specific structural problem. In the 2025 season, the Yellow Army struggled and settled at the last place in the points table. Dhoni himself had a quiet year by his standards, managing 196 runs at a strike rate of 135.17. By moving up the order, Dhoni can set the pace without the immediate pressure of an increased required run rate, allowing the young power hitters to play around his veteran steadiness.
Ashwin hails new-look CSK as a strong batsman
While the spotlight remains firmly on Dhoni, Chennai Super Kings have quietly carried out a ‘power reset’ in the off-season. purchase of Sanju Samson it is a massive statement of intent that anchors the middle order with a high intention. Ashwin points out that the sheer depth of this squad makes them a nightmare for opposition captains.
The projected 2026 batting order is a mix of experienced gold and explosive youngsters:
- Foundation: Travel to Giikwa and Sanju Samson.
- X factors: Devald Brewis and heavy hitting Shivam Dubey.
- Future: Young feelings Ayush Mhatre and Prashant Veer.
Ashwin’s analysis highlights this with players Jamie Overton provides low-grade muscle and Ayush Mhatre CSK, which is expected to bring its local form to the big stage, wants to make scoring more than 200 points a regular event.
“Even for 220 teams it is really difficult to stop CSK“,” Ashwin added on his YouTube channel, highlighting the unprecedented number of boundary hitters in this squad.
