Former India batter Aakash Chopra shared his perspective on MS Dhoni’s ongoing IPL journey. Thana is set to appear for yet another season with the Chennai Super Kings, with his 45th birthday coming this July. He is set to extend his illustrated IPL career further with the franchise.
Despite ongoing fitness concerns, particularly a recurring knee issue, the veteran wicketkeeper-batter remains committed to contributing to the team, even if his on-field role has become more limited in recent seasons.
The former Indian batter acknowledged the challenge of the IPL season, stating, “It is a little difficult for Dhoni as well because he is on the wrong side of 40. For him, not playing anything for 10 months, turning up for the IPL and switching on, and also playing at a number where he gets only 10–12 balls, is the toughest thing to do. Then there are also 20 overs of keeping, so his job is perhaps the toughest.”
In IPL 2025, Dhoni primarily featured in the lower middle order, often walking in during the final overs with little time to make a substantial impact. He managed 196 runs at an average of 24.50, striking at 135.17, numbers that reflect both his evolving role and the constraints he faces.
Meanwhile, Chennai Super Kings are heading into IPL 2026 with a renewed approach after finishing at the bottom of the table last season. Moving away from the long-standing “Dad’s Army” tag, the franchise has embraced a younger core. The team management has undertaken a significant overhaul, aiming to balance immediate performance with future growth.
A major highlight of this shift is the acquisition of wicketkeeper-batter Sanju Samson through a trade. Alongside him, promising youngsters Prashant Veer and Kartik Sharma were secured at the auction for ₹14.20 crore each, signaling a clear intent to rebuild and return to their former dominance.
