🚨 MS Dhoni’s IPL future — what we actually know
Key pointSource
CSK management say Dhoni has given no hint of retirement after IPL 2025 — he remains in their plans for 2026.
Dhoni himself (post-match last week): “I’ll take 6-8 months after this season to assess my fitness before deciding.”
What that means
Retirement not ruled out, but not announced.
CSK’s internal briefing suggests they expect him back in 2026.
Dhoni keeps the door open, tying his choice to how his knee/back hold up after a long rest and rehab period.
Timeline:
Decision window: Nov 2025 – Jan 2026.
If he feels match-fit, he can be retained or re-drafted before the February 2026 auction.
Bottom line
Reports that “MSD is likely to play IPL 2026” reflect CSK’s optimism, not an official commitment from Dhoni. The only certainty right now is that no farewell announcement has been made — and Captain Cool will decide after giving his body a full post-season check-up.