As Chennai Super Kings (CSK) prepare for the upcoming IPL edition, the whistle podu fans have received both reassurance and a reality check. 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.
Primary reasons why MS Dhoni won’t feature in every game of IPL 2026
1. Fitness and workload management at 44
The most compelling reason for Dhoni’s reduced participation is simply the physical demands of the game at his age. Dhoni, who turns 45 in July 2026, has been managing persistent knee and back issues over recent seasons. Wicketkeeping across tightly packed IPL fixtures – often with minimal turnaround time between matches – can take a significant toll on his body.
A senior CSK official spilled beans on the franchise’s approach: “We can confirm that he [Dhoni] is coming to Chennai and had confirmed his availability for the season. Whether he will play all games or not is something we can’t say at the moment.” The team management is expected to use Dhoni selectively through 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 transformed CSK’s wicketkeeping options. With Samson now in the squad, CSK possess a ready-made first-choice wicketkeeper who can seamlessly take over the gloves when Dhoni is rested.
CSK’s wicketkeeping depth extends beyond Samson. The franchise also has Urvil Patel as backup, along with 19-year-old Kartik Sharma – a ₹14.20 crore recruit who is being groomed as a future finisher alongside Shivam Dube This embarrassment of riches behind the stumps gives CSK the tactical flexibility to preserve Dhoni for high-impact situations without compromising team balance.
3. Impact player rule reduces Dhoni’s batting workload
The Impact Player rule, which has been in effect over the past two IPL seasons, has fundamentally altered Dhoni’s role in the team. He has not been required extensively as a batter in the middle overs, with his appearances largely limited to situational cameos in the death overs.
This reduced batting workload has allowed Dhoni to conserve energy while still providing his invaluable presence on the field. The team management is likely to continue this approach in IPL 2026, deploying Dhoni primarily as a finisher in short bursts rather than expecting him to bat through extended innings.
The Chepauk guarantee: Dhoni to play all matches at home
While rotation is expected throughout the season, one factor appears certain: Dhoni will feature in all home matches at the MA Chidambaram Stadium His presence at Chepauk remains an emotional and commercial draw, with the crowd’s energy often shifting momentum in CSK’s favour the moment he walks onto the field.
As IPL 2026 approaches, fans can expect to see Thala in yellow – just perhaps not in every single match. The strategy represents a sensible balance between maximising Dhoni’s impact and ensuring the 44-year-old legend remains fresh for the moments that matter most.
