CSK Coach Clarifies MS Dhoni’s Future After IPL 2026 Season Review
CSK coach ends speculation on MS Dhoni’s future after IPL 2026 season.
Chennai Super Kings head coach Eric Simons has addressed growing speculation around the future of franchise icon MS Dhoni after a disappointing IPL 2026 season in which the former captain did not feature in a single match due to injury concerns.
Speaking after CSK’s final league defeat against Gujarat Titans, Simons clarified that the decision on Dhoni’s continuation remains entirely with the veteran wicketkeeper-batter. He stressed that while the franchise remains hopeful of seeing Dhoni return next season, no formal decision has been made and it ultimately depends on the player’s fitness and readiness.
For the first time in franchise history, CSK completed an IPL season without Dhoni taking part in any match, as persistent injury issues ruled him out across all 14 league games. In his absence, the team experimented with several young players, including Urvil Patel, Kartik Sharma and Ayush Mhatre, as part of a broader transition phase aimed at building a squad for the future.
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Simons acknowledged that Dhoni’s absence was a significant factor in CSK’s inconsistent campaign but praised the team management for giving opportunities to emerging players. He highlighted Kartik Sharma’s progress as one of the positives of the season, while noting that others showed promise in brief phases but are still adapting to the demands of the IPL.
Addressing Dhoni’s condition, Simons said the veteran remained in strong touch during net sessions despite his injury limitations. He added that Dhoni’s leg injury had restricted his ability to run, but his ball-striking ability remained at an elite level, suggesting that fitness rather than form was the key factor behind his absence.
The coach also reflected on CSK’s broader struggles, describing the squad as a young and evolving unit affected by injuries to key players such as Jamie Overton. He said the team gained valuable clarity about its strengths and weaknesses over the season, even as inconsistent availability and disruptions prevented them from building sustained momentum.
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