3 Reasons why MS Dhoni shouldn't play IPL 2026

In IPL 2025, one of Indian cricket's most recognizable players, MS Dhoni, continues to attract enormous crowds.  Although his presence raised the spirits of the Chennai Super Kings, he only made occasional outings behind the stumps and with the bat.  Although the performances weren't as good as the Dhoni of the past, fans continued to cheer.

 In IPL 2025, Dhoni had little influence on the field, save a few sentimental moments.  Age has taken its toll on him, even though he kept wickets admirably and only managed 196 runs in 13 innings.  It's time to look beyond the illustrious captain as CSK attempts to rebuild.

Today, we take a look at 3 main reasons why MS Dhoni shouldn’t be playing in IPL 2026.

Here are 3 Reasons why MS Dhoni shouldn't play IPL 2026:

1. Diminishing power with the bat

Dhoni's IPL 2025 batting performance showed a sharp drop. He relied largely on boundaries, which were rare, and found it difficult to rotate his strike. He didn't finish games in the vintage fashion that supporters had hoped for, and while strike rate remained 135, his effect as finisher was no more.

CSK's dependence on Dhoni is starting to throw off the team's balance while younger players wait in the wings. Keeping him in the starting lineup puts pressure on others to make up for his decreased productivity and restricts possibilities for fresh talent.

2. Fitness and injury concerns

During IPL 2025, Dhoni's physical limits became evident at the age of 43. MS Dhoni had struggled with knee issues in IPL 2023 and underwent surgery. He then suffered a hamstring injury in IPL 2024. And now in IPL 2025, Dhoni is once again trying to keep up with his failing knees.

As a result, CSK lost their reliable presence behind the wickets and the team's consistency was disturbed. His body isn't keeping up, but his cricketing mind is still sharp. Dhoni's decreased mobility is becoming a liability in a fast-paced competition like the IPL when stamina and agility are essential.

3. CSK cannot plan their transition

Dhoni's leadership has long been advantageous to CSK; although he relinquished his captaincy in the 2024 Indian Premier League, he took it again in the 2025 tournament after Ruturaj Gaikwad was injured. But the CSK's performance has shown that it's time for him to go. 

His prolonged stay can interfere with the team's long-term goals and postpone the development of a new leader. CSK needs to start making investments in future leadership since younger captains require room to develop.  Dhoni's legacy would be preserved without going overboard if he were allowed to retire at this time.

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