Even as speculation continues over MS Dhoni’s future in the Indian Premier League, the Chennai Super Kings icon offered fans a lighthearted moment at a recent private event. When a supporter urged him to play the 2026 season, Dhoni replied with his trademark humour: “Who will take care of the pain in my knees?”
Earlier in the event, the 2011 World Cup-winning captain said no decision had been made yet. “I don’t know whether I’ll play or not. I have time to decide. I have some time until December, so I’ll take another couple of months, and then finally, I can make my decision,” he said, leaving the door open for another season.
Dhoni’s knee issues have been a persistent concern since IPL 2023, when he led CSK to the title despite playing in pain. He underwent surgery right after the final, which has since affected his batting position and running between the wickets. In 2025, after starting the season with Ruturaj Gaikwad as captain, Dhoni returned to lead midway through the tournament due to Gaikwad’s injury. However, CSK endured one of their worst campaigns, managing only four wins in 14 matches.
While there is still no clarity on his IPL 2026 plans, Dhoni has publicly backed Gaikwad to captain the side again. For now, CSK fans can only hope their “Thala” decides the knees can wait another year.