MS Dhoni opens up CSK's future, hints this 28-year-old may lead the team in IPL 2026

ICC Hall of Famer and Chennai Super Kings player MS Dhoni stated that the batting order of the franchise is sorted as the team skipper, Ruturaj Gaikwad, will be returning after recovering from injury.

In the IPL 2025, an injury put an end to Gaikwad's season, as he made 122 runs in five matches, averaging 24.40, with two half-centuries. Not only was Gaikwad inconsistent, but he could win only one out of five matches during the season.

What Dhoni said on CSK's future?

Speaking during the event, Dhoni said, "I think our batting order is quite sorted as of now. Gaikwad will be coming back; he got injured, so he will be coming back. So it looks as if we are quite sorted now with a small auction coming in December. Whatever further loopholes are there, we will try to plug those in, but again, as I said, we have to be at our best at the start of the tournament and have to get the planning right. We have to use the resources in the best possible manner."

In the 18th edition of the cash-rich league, the Chennai-based franchise finishes at the 10th spot after winning just four games out of their 14 games in the competition.

Last year, as well, the CSK franchise was unable to qualify for the playoffs as they finished fifth after winning seven out of their 14 games in the tournament.

Dhoni reflected on last two seasons' performance

Speaking about the last two seasons' performance, Dhoni said, "Last year as well, the CSK franchise were unable to qualify for the playoffs as they finished fifth after winning seven out of their 14 games in the tournament.

"MS Dhoni, Midway through the IPL 2025 season, took the captaincy mantle on his shoulders while donning the finisher's role. He pulled the curtains down on the season with 196 runs from 14 matches at 24.50, with a Player of the Match award against Lucknow Super Giants.

Behind the stumps, Dhoni turned back the clock and ignited the stumps with his lightning-quick reflexes on numerous occasions, serving as a stark reminder of his mastery with gloves. For Bravo, people would pay to see those fleeting moments being executed by 'Captain Cool'.

What advice MS Dhoni gave to young generaion?

The former India captain gave advice to the young generations to stay calm, composed, and strategic.He believes an individual should understand themselves.

Captain Cool also said that all want to win games and perform, but we cannot change ourselves drastically.

"I think what's important is to understand yourself, because you have many role models to follow. But what you have to see is what suits you the best. You know, some people are aggressive, some are calm, some are mischievous. We all want to win games, and we want to perform. But I cannot change myself drastically," MS Dhoni said at an event in Chennai.

Dhoni on self-awareness and authenticity

Dhoni emphasised the importance of self-awareness and authenticity. He believes that understanding your true nature and what helps you perform is crucial.

"So even if I say I like someone in batting, but if my character is completely different, I should only admire the batting and take the learnings of batting. Because if I try to change myself character, it will start affecting my game also. So what is important is to first analyse what is your true character is, you know, what really helps you perform," he added.