AB de Villiers Questions MS Dhoni’s Role in CSK Ahead of IPL 2026, Sparks Debate
As the 19th season of the Indian Premier League (IPL 2026) approaches, veteran cricketer MS Dhoni remains one of the most talked-about figures in the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) squad. At 44, Dhoni continues to don the yellow jersey, but his role on the field has evolved significantly over the past couple of seasons.
While Dhoni still handles wicketkeeping duties, his batting contributions have been limited. Often coming late in the order—at numbers 8 or 9—he rarely gets enough time to make an impact with the bat. This has prompted cricketing great AB de Villiers to question the rationale behind Dhoni’s position.
“I don’t see a role for MS batting at 8 or 9 and not really doing enough,” de Villiers said on Star Sports.
“If he is going to play the role of batting at 8 or 9 and not really captaining, then I just feel he is almost making up a spot and is almost there for the wrong reasons. And that isn’t the position he deserves to be in. He has got to bat himself up to, at the latest, number 6. I would even like to see him at 5 or 4 sometimes.”
Perspectives from Former Teammates
Dhoni’s former India and CSK teammate Robin Uthappa suggested that IPL 2026 could potentially be Dhoni’s last season. Meanwhile, ex-India all-rounder Irfan Pathan emphasized the importance of Dhoni’s presence for the younger generation of CSK players. According to Pathan, the upcoming players can learn a great deal by observing Dhoni’s experience, leadership, and preparation.
“As soon as the IPL comes around, we start seeing Mahendra Singh Dhoni again, which means he is fully prepared for it, and he is looking very fit as well,” Pathan told JioStar.
CSK’s Transition and Dhoni’s Influence
The CSK franchise is clearly transitioning towards a younger core, but Dhoni’s influence in the dressing room remains invaluable. While his on-field role may be limited, his leadership and mentoring are expected to play a crucial role in shaping the next generation of leaders at the franchise.
As IPL 2026 draws near, the debate over Dhoni’s batting position and overall role continues to spark discussion among cricket fans and experts alike. One thing remains clear: even in a reduced capacity, MS Dhoni’s presence for CSK is about more than just runs it’s about experience, guidance, and the aura of one of cricket’s greatest leaders.
