Fans of the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) have all the reason in the world to rejoice. MS Dhoni is not ready to hang up his boots just yet. CSK CEO Kasi Viswanathan has confirmed that the beloved captain will still be playing next year and will participate in the Indian Premier League (IPL) for the 2026 season.

Following his retirement from international cricket in 2020, the speculation among fans was how much longer MS Dhoni would sport the yellow jersey. Each year, stories surface suggesting that 2022 or 2023 might be his “last dance,” but the most loved captain shows us he is nowhere near finished.

MS Dhoni not aiming for imminent retirement

In an interview with Provoke Lifestyle magazine, CSK CEO Kasi Viswanathan announced that Dhoni is not looking at retirement just yet and that he is committed to playing in 2026. This declaration has brought much cheer and relief to the CSK faithful, who have been fixated on whether 2025 marks the end of an era.

Dhoni’s announcement comes off the back of the Super Kings having a tough IPL 2025 season. With captain Ruturaj Gaikwad injured for most of the season, Dhoni found himself once again leading from the front. Unfortunately, 2023 was one of CSK’s more difficult seasons, as the squad finished last on the table after winning just four matches out of 14 played.

CSK has been one of the most successful IPL franchises under Dhoni’s captaincy, winning five titles in 2010, 2011, 2018, 2021, and 2023, and reaching the playoffs almost every year. Dhoni’s announcement has already triggered excitement on social media, as followers excitedly await another season of “Thala magic.”

Injury concerns still loom over Dhoni’s future

Even with all of the positive news, Dhoni’s fitness is still a central issue. The aging wicketkeeper-batsman has struggled with knee and back problems for the past few years. Following the IPL 2023 season, he underwent arthroscopic surgery on his left knee but played through pain. He usually wore a knee brace and made sure his load was manageable.

Now at 44, Dhoni has yet to lose his fitness. His fitness is impressive enough to enable him to perform his role behind the stumps and bat, which is a feat at his age and dealing with the physical challenges he has previously faced. He has the passion for the game, and at the moment, retirement does not seem to be on his agenda.