Ever since the inception of the IPL in 2008, Chennai Super Kings have had the comforting presence of MS Dhoni. The legendary captain played a key role in cementing CSK’s status as an IPL behemoth by guiding
them to a record five title triumphs. However, the franchise has started preparing for a future without Dhoni, who is well into the last phase of his playing career.
And that future could arrive as early as next season, as former India all-rounder Irfan Pathan has predicted that IPL 2026 could be the last of Dhoni’s glittering career.
Pathan feels that Dhoni has been the one shouldering the responsibility for CSK over the years, but the time has come for the younger generation to take over.
“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 said on JioHotstar. “We have seen him take responsibility for a number of years now, but I think this is the time for the baton to pass to the likes of Ayush Mhatre, Dewald Brevis, Shivam Dube and Ruturaj Gaikwad, who is a young captain as well.”
With the franchise shunning its old ideology of relying on experience rather than investing in youth, Pathan is looking forward to how the CSK batting line-up will fare in the upcoming season, which is scheduled to get underway on March 28.
“CSK’s ideology has changed. It will be key for the youngsters to learn from MS Dhoni’s experience, and for him to guide the players alongside him. It is a very exciting team on paper. In terms of six-hitting ability and intent, I am really looking forward to seeing the fearlessness of this young CSK side,” he said.
‘CSK Incomplete Without Dhoni’
Pathan, who was part of the CSK dugout during his playing days, feels Dhoni remains invaluable to CSK, and his mere presence will benefit the squad.
“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. 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,” he said.
