R Ashwin Backs MS Dhoni’s Place in Playing XI Ahead Of CSK Opener In IPL 2026

Ravichandran Ashwin backs MS Dhoni’s place in CSK’s XI for IPL 2026, highlighting his leadership value and potential finishing role despite age concerns.

As Indian Premier League 2026 approaches, all eyes are once again on MS Dhoni, who is set to return in the iconic yellow jersey of Chennai Super Kings. With speculation growing around this being his final season, discussions have intensified about his role in the team’s evolving setup.

Chennai Super Kings have already begun transitioning into a new era, appointing Ruturaj Gaikwad as their full-time captain while bringing in fresh faces, including Sanju Samson. With a younger core taking shape, questions have naturally emerged regarding Dhoni’s place in the playing XI.

Despite these changes, Dhoni’s influence continues to extend beyond his contributions with the bat or behind the stumps. His tactical brilliance and experience remain crucial, especially for guiding Gaikwad as he steps into a leadership role.

Ashwin’s Strong Verdict on Dhoni’s Selection

For Ravichandran Ashwin, there is no debate about Dhoni’s inclusion in the XI.

“If MS Dhoni is part of the CSK squad, and you are making an XI, there’s no question about whether he should be included. He has to walk into the XI,” Ashwin said on his YouTube channel.

“This is the guy who pulled out the stump in Melbourne and quietly retired from Test cricket. If he didn’t want to play in the IPL, he would have retired already. He still believes 100% that he can play. He’s been practising for the past three months. He’s saying, ‘Think whatever you want, but I am going to play.’ That’s the message he’s sending us all. If a player like him wants to play, how can you tell him not to? That’s not possible,” Ashwin added.

Ashwin’s comments underline Dhoni’s enduring mindset and commitment, even as he approaches the twilight of his career.

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Potential Role: Finisher and On-Field Guide

Ashwin also offered insight into how Dhoni could be utilised during the season, suggesting a dual role that balances leadership and finishing duties.

“I agree that he’s not a top-six batsman anymore, but I think he can play a dual role. He can be the on-field compass for Ruturaj Gaikwad. If you remove him from the team, then Sanju Samson becomes the wicketkeeper, and someone like Urvil Patel has to come in. If they were thinking that way, Dhoni wouldn’t even be practising with the squad. I saw them practice recently, and Samson was fielding in the outfield, so I think Dhoni will keep wickets and probably bat at No. 7,” Ashwin explained.

“You can promote him up in the batting order, inside the powerplay. But again, I think it depends on how Dhoni’s body is reacting. He cannot play in the middle overs but can surely give you the finishing touches. He’s still able to hit big shots. The point is: Can you compare MS Dhoni from five years ago to now and say he’s the same? Maybe not. He’s not the same player. But he’s definitely putting in the effort,” he added.