Will MS Dhoni Play IPL 2026? Suresh Raina Says “Yes” Amid Retirement Buzz

Chennai Super Kings’ forgettable IPL 2025 campaign may have intensified speculation over MS Dhoni’s retirement, but former CSK star Suresh Raina has sparked new hope for fans. Speaking at a film premiere event, Raina confidently claimed that Dhoni will play IPL 2026, putting an end, at least temporarily, to swirling rumours about the legendary wicketkeeper’s swansong.

“He must be preparing himself also, but definitely, he will be playing one more year. He is coming to Chennai again,” said Raina, who shares a deep bond with Dhoni both on and off the field.

Dhoni’s Future: Still Unofficial, But Not Unlikely

Though there’s been no official statement from MS Dhoni or Chennai Super Kings management, Raina’s remarks have reignited discussions around Dhoni’s future. At 43, Dhoni’s role in the 2025 season was limited, yet impactful. He stepped up to lead the side after Ruturaj Gaikwad was sidelined with injury and scored 196 runs at a strike rate of 135.17, numbers that, while not vintage Dhoni, still reflect value under pressure.

However, CSK as a unit faltered, missing the playoffs and exposing cracks in a senior-heavy lineup. This underperformance fueled retirement chatter, with pundits and fans divided between letting Dhoni bow out gracefully or giving him one final season to script a fairytale exit.

CSK Legacy and Fan Expectations

Dhoni’s contribution to CSK and IPL as a whole is undeniable. Under his captaincy, Chennai Super Kings have clinched five IPL titles and consistently reached the business end of the tournament. Even during declining personal form, Dhoni’s presence has often galvanized the team and its fans, a factor that continues to buy him goodwill from the franchise and ownership.

If Raina’s words are indeed accurate, IPL 2026 could mark the final chapter of one of the game’s most iconic careers. And for millions of CSK and Dhoni fans, it may be the last opportunity to chant “Thala” from the yellow stands of Chepauk.

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