MS Dhoni Ready To Play Every IPL 2026 Match For CSK

Subramaniam Badrinath believes no one in Chennai Super Kings, not even coach Stephen Fleming, can drop MS Dhoni.

Former Chennai Super Kings cricketer Subramaniam Badrinath believes it would be almost impossible for anyone within the franchise to leave MS Dhoni out of the playing XI during the upcoming Indian Premier League 2026 season. According to Badrinath, even the team’s coaching staff may find it difficult to make such a decision involving the iconic former captain.

Dhoni, now 44, is preparing to feature in his 19th IPL season, continuing a remarkable career with CSK. Over the past few seasons, questions have frequently emerged regarding his role in the side, particularly with the bat. However, his leadership presence and wicketkeeping abilities have continued to keep him central to the franchise’s plans.

Commenting on recent remarks from CSK CEO Kasi Viswanathan about Dhoni potentially playing every match, Badrinath shared his views on the situation.

“I don’t know if it is an administrative decision where he (CSK CEO) said that he (Dhoni) is ready to play all matches. He said that he would support the cricketing decision and stop. Now, will Fleming go and tell Dhoni that you don’t play this match, we are dropping you. I don’t think Fleming has a chance at all. How will he go and tell Dhoni that you are dropped? I literally feel that it is not possible,” he said on his YouTube channel.

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Impact Player Role Unlikely for Dhoni

The introduction of the Impact Player rule in the IPL has helped extend the careers of several senior cricketers, including Dhoni. At the same time, the Uncapped Player rule, which allows retired international cricketers to be categorized differently for salary cap purposes, has also played a role in CSK retaining their legendary captain.

Despite these changes, Badrinath feels that even suggesting a limited role for Dhoni, such as using him only as an Impact Player, would be extremely difficult for the team management.

“I dont think any support staff in the world, be it even Fleming, can tell Dhoni you are an impact player or you dont play this match. There is no chance. We can take it that he is going to play all the matches,” he added.