Even as Chennai Super Kings endured their worst-ever IPL campaign, finishing at the bottom of the table for the first time in their history, all eyes turned once again to the future of their iconic leader — MS Dhoni.
The 43-year-old, who scored 196 runs in 14 matches at an average of 24.50 and a strike rate of 135.17, could not replicate the fireworks of IPL 2024, where he blazed at 220.55. But former India cricketer Robin Uthappa believes Dhoni still has unfinished business.
Speaking on JioStar, Uthappa revealed, “It all depends on his health and how he feels. You have to understand that he really wants to play — the fire still burns. From what he said during the post-match presentation, it’s clear that the fire still burns to win championships, to play out there in the middle.”
Uthappa further explained that Dhoni’s participation in IPL 2026 will hinge on how his body holds up over the coming months. “Now it’s about going back and working on his body to bring it to the level he wants for the next IPL. If that doesn’t happen, he’ll call it before the mini-auction. If not, you’ll see a tweet or an Instagram post,” he added.
Dhoni, as always, left fans guessing with his classic ambiguity in the post-match presentation after CSK’s dominant 83-run win over Gujarat Titans. “I have 4-5 months to decide, there's no hurry. Need to keep the body fit. You have to be at your best. If cricketers start retiring for their performance, some of them will retire at 22.
"Will go back to Ranchi and enjoy a few bike rides. I am not saying I am done, nor saying I am coming back. I have the luxury of time. Will think about it and then decide,” Dhoni said.
For now, the wait begins. Whether Dhoni takes the field in IPL 2026 or not, one thing is clear — the desire still burns, and the legacy still commands attention.
