The question surrounding MS Dhoni's IPL future remains unanswered, with Chennai Super Kings CEO Kasi Viswanathan confirming that the legendary former captain
has not yet told the franchise that he will retire from the tournament.
Dhoni's participation in IPL 2027 has become one of the biggest talking points ahead of the next season after the 45-year-old missed the entire 2026 campaign because of injury. While speculation over his retirement has grown, CSK are yet to receive a definitive decision from their most iconic player.
Will MS Dhoni play in IPL 2027?
Viswanathan addressed the issue while responding to the latest speculation around Dhoni's future. The CSK CEO made it clear that the franchise is waiting for Dhoni himself to make the call.
"Dhoni hasn't yet said he won't play. So lets wait," Viswanathan told PTI.
The statement means that, as things stand, Dhoni has neither confirmed his participation in IPL 2027 nor announced his retirement from the competition. His final decision is expected to determine CSK's plans for the upcoming season.
Dhoni was retained by CSK ahead of the 2025 mega auction and continued his association with the franchise into 2026. However, injury ruled him out of the entire season, leaving CSK without their veteran wicketkeeper-batter on the field.
The uncertainty has also coincided with a period of considerable change at the franchise. Stephen Fleming's long tenure as head coach has ended, while CSK are preparing for a new phase under a reshaped management structure.
Viswanathan has previously stressed that CSK would like Dhoni to remain associated with the franchise regardless of the capacity in which he chooses to continue.
"We would always like to have him as a permanent fixture at CSK in whatever capacity - be it as a player, coach or mentor, whatever he would like," the CEO concluded.
For now, there is no official confirmation that Dhoni will retire or return as a player. The decision remains with the former India captain, and CSK are waiting for clarity ahead of the IPL 2027.
