“Tough to Imagine CSK Without Him”: Irfan Pathan on MS Dhoni Ahead of IPL 2026
Chennai: As the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 approaches, speculation is rife that this season could mark the final appearance of legendary wicketkeeper-batter MS Dhoni in the yellow jersey of Chennai Super Kings (CSK). Former India all-rounder Irfan Pathan has expressed his emotions about Dhoni’s immense impact on the team, calling it “difficult to imagine CSK and the IPL without him.”
Dhoni, who has been a cornerstone of CSK for years, has led the franchise to five IPL titles during his captaincy tenure. Known for his calm leadership and match-winning skills, Dhoni remains a vital member of the leadership group, helping groom young talents for the future.
“CSK is incomplete without MS Dhoni. This season might be the last time we see him in the yellow jersey, and it’s tough to imagine CSK and the IPL without him,” Pathan told Jio Hotstar. He added, “This season, Dhoni will play an important role in bringing everyone together. I’m not sure how many games he will play, but his presence in the dressing room will help a lot. Ruturaj Gaikwad is the leader, but as a group, two or three guys are being groomed for the future. That is where MS Dhoni comes in. I hope he makes a difference.”
Pathan also shed light on CSK’s careful approach to managing Dhoni’s workload, ensuring the team balances his on-field presence with the demands of the season. “Questions about his fitness, batting position, and whether he will play all games will still come up. The CSK team management will take it step by step. They will definitely look to give him a perfect farewell by lifting their sixth IPL trophy,” he said.
After a disappointing IPL 2025 season, where CSK finished last on the points table with just four wins out of fourteen matches, Dhoni’s guidance and experience will be crucial in turning the team around.
Even at 45, Dhoni continues to shine as a batter. In 278 IPL matches and 242 innings, he has amassed 5,439 runs at an average of 38.80, a strike rate of 137.45, and has scored 24 fifties, with a highest score of 84 not out. His presence in the CSK dressing room goes beyond statistics, with young players relying on his mentorship and calm influence.
With IPL 2026 set to be a potential farewell season for one of the game’s greatest leaders, fans and cricket pundits alike will be watching eagerly to see Dhoni guide CSK both on and off the field, aiming to bring the franchise its sixth title.
