IPL 2026: With Ruturaj Gaikwad set to captain and Sanju Samson likely to keep, what role will MS Dhoni play for CSK?
The Board of Control for Cricket in India has announced the schedule for the first phase of the Indian Premier League 2026, set to be played from March 28 to April 12, 2026. Following the announcement, all teams have begun their preparations, refining strategies and working behind the scenes for this prestigious franchise tournament. This season will be particularly special, as all ten teams will, for the first time in IPL history, be led by Indian captains.
Ahead of the 19th edition, the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) have unveiled a refreshed version of their squad. Traditionally known for assembling experienced players from across the world and blending them effectively—much like “old wine in a new bottle”—the franchise have enjoyed tremendous success with this approach, winning five titles. However, after three disappointing seasons, the team shifted their strategy by investing in several young players ahead of IPL 2026. In addition, they have signed veteran cricketer and T20 World Cup winner Sanju Samson for the upcoming season.
Following Samson’s signing, questions have begun to emerge among supporters and the wider cricketing community. The primary one: does MS Dhoni still have a clearly defined role in the team? The bond between Dhoni and CSK has long been one of the most iconic relationships in the IPL. Since the league’s inception in 2008, Dhoni has been the face of the franchise. He stepped down from captaincy ahead of the 2024 season, handing over leadership to Ruturaj Gaikwad. With Samson now part of the CSK setup, even the wicketkeeping duties could shift away from Dhoni.
With this in mind, it remains to be seen what Dhoni’s role will be in IPL 2026, with Ruturaj leading the side and Samson likely to take over behind the stumps.
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From skipper to mentor
There is no doubt that under the captaincy of MS Dhoni, CKS enjoyed their golden era. ‘Thala’ (as CSK fans regard Dhoni) led the team to five IPL titles and built a massive, loyal fanbase – famously known as the Whistle Podu Army. However, ahead of the 2026 season, his role in the team is gradually changing. Dhoni is now expected to take on more of a mentor’s role, focusing on guiding and nurturing young talents like Ayush Mhatre, Prashant Veer, and Urvil Patel.
The introduction of the Impact Player rule has also reduced his involvement on the field. He is often used as a late-order batter, coming in for a few deliveries to score quick runs. While this strategy has worked at times, it has also led to some inconsistency. It will be interesting to see how the legendary captain guides the younger members of the squad and helps the team aim for another IPL title.
Wicketkeeping shift
Following Samson’s signing, one of the biggest questions for the Chennai-based franchise is who will take over the wicketkeeping duties. Since his debut in 2008, MS Dhoni has been CSK’s first-choice wicketkeeper. However, with Samson’s arrival, there is growing speculation over whether Dhoni will continue behind the stumps or pass on the responsibility. As of now, there has been no official confirmation from the franchise or the players, but Samson is widely seen as the likely candidate to take over the role.
If Sanju Samson does keep wickets, CSK may look to manage Dhoni’s workload. The team could either rest him for certain matches or use Chennai’s beloved ‘Thala’ as an Impact Player. This would allow him to contribute as a finisher without taking on full-time fielding duties. Regardless, it would mark a significant and emotional shift for the franchise—perhaps even bigger than Dhoni’s move down the batting order. It remains to be seen how CSK balances experience with transition, and what exact role Dhoni will play in IPL 2026.
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Balanced batting role
There are strong discussions around Dhoni’s batting position in CSK’s lineup for the upcoming season. He could bat lower down the order, possibly at No. 7 or 8, allowing younger players to take on more responsibility in the middle order. This approach appears to be part of a long-term plan to prepare the team for the future.
However, an ideal scenario could see him batting at No. 5 or 6, where he can have a greater impact on the game. Many believe he should take on more responsibility and handle pressure situations, similar to how he did during his prime. At the same time, the legendary captain may reduce his on-field role and focus more on guiding the team.
Even then, his presence in the dressing room will remain invaluable. Players like Samson can learn a great deal from his experience, while Rututraj continues to lead the side. Overall, CSK appear to be building a strong leadership group; one that prepares for the future while continuing to benefit from Dhoni’s legacy.
The big question
Since CSK won the IPL title in 2023, there has been constant speculation about Dhoni’s retirement. Every season, fans and experts wonder whether it will be his last. Even though he has not captained for the past two seasons, Dhoni has remained a vital presence on the field, offering guidance from behind the stumps. While Sanju Samson is also a strong wicketkeeper, Dhoni still stands out because of his vast experience.
However, IPL 2026 could finally be the moment when ‘Thala’ decides to step away, with Ruturaj and Samson emerging as the likely successors in leadership and wicketkeeping, respectively. If that happens, it will be an emotional moment for fans and the franchise alike. At the same time, it will pose a significant challenge for CSK management to balance sentiment with team performance.
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