MS Dhoni is set to play IPL 2026 for Chennai Super Kings, while Ruturaj Gaikwad will continue as captain despite Dhoni’s presence in the squad.
Legendary Indian wicketkeeper-batter Mahendra Singh Dhoni is set to feature for the Chennai Super Kings in the upcoming Indian Premier League 2026 season, which is scheduled to begin on March 28. The 44-year-old, widely regarded as one of the greatest players in the history of the league, recently grabbed attention after being spotted on a flight heading to Chennai.
What started as a regular journey quickly turned into a memorable moment for fans on board. As soon as passengers recognised Dhoni, the aircraft erupted with loud cheers and excitement, creating a stadium-like atmosphere inside the plane. The former India captain acknowledged the warm reception with a humble gesture, waving his boarding pass and greeting the fans.
Dhoni’s presence instantly lifted the mood among the supporters, many of whom captured the moment on their phones, with the videos soon making rounds on social media.
Dhoni Seen Supporting Team India During T20 World Cup 2026
Apart from preparing for the IPL season, Dhoni was also seen actively supporting the India national cricket team during the recently concluded ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026.
The veteran cricketer attended India’s semi-final clash at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai and was also present for the grand final at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad.
Following India’s title triumph, Dhoni shared the celebratory moment with players on the field and even walked out with the trophy alongside former India captain Rohit Sharma, who had led the team to the 2024 T20 World Cup victory.
His appearance during the celebrations was widely appreciated by fans, highlighting his enduring connection with Indian cricket even after stepping away from international cricket.
Ruturaj Gaikwad to Lead CSK Despite Dhoni’s Presence
Although Dhoni remains an integral part of the Chennai Super Kings squad, the team will continue under the leadership of Ruturaj Gaikwad in IPL 2026.
During the 2025 season, Dhoni had briefly taken over captaincy duties after Gaikwad was ruled out of the tournament due to an elbow fracture. However, despite Dhoni stepping in as captain for 10 matches, the franchise endured a difficult campaign and finished at the bottom of the points table for the first time in IPL history.
ALSO READ | 101 Crore Of T20 World Cup 2026 Prize Pool Revealed After India’s Tournament Win
Gaikwad, who was retained by CSK for ₹18 crore ahead of the IPL 2025 mega auction, had been appointed captain before the start of the 2024 season. The management has continued to show faith in the young opener’s leadership abilities and he is expected to lead the Chennai-based franchise once again in the upcoming edition.
With Dhoni returning to the squad and Gaikwad leading the side, Chennai Super Kings will aim to bounce back strongly and rediscover their winning form in IPL 2026.
This article follows WicketWatcher’s editorial standards. Learn more in our Editorial Policy or report an issue via our Corrections Policy.