Anil Kumble backs CSK management to take a call on MS Dhoni’s future ahead of IPL 2026

Former Indian leg-spinner Anil Kumble feels Chennai Super Kings’ think tank should take a call on MS Dhoni’s future ahead of the new season. Dhoni has not yet confirmed his participation for the next edition of the IPL and he has even hinted that he could keep on playing if he manages to keep his fitness intact.

Dhoni scored 196 runs in 13 matches for CSK in IPL 2025 at an average of 24.50 and a strike rate of 135.17. The Indian veteran could not bat high in the order due to knee problems and many experts have questioned his role in the team.

Dhoni will turn 44 in July and it is not going to be easy for him to keep playing in a highly competitive tournament like the IPL.

“At some point in time they have to take a call, that’s for MS to do. This is one format that allows an older player to come in and be really successful, maybe in ODIs or Tests it becomes that much harder. But, at some point, the team management needs to make a call, as to how they want to see the future of CSK. If MS may not be on the field, but I am sure he will remain involved in building CSK’s future,” Kumble said on ESPN Cricinfo.

On the other hand, former Australian all-rounder Tom Moody said he would be surprised if Dhoni returns as a player for the next season of the IPL.

“I’d be very surprised if we see him back as a player. I think he definitely needs to be back in that CSK camp, but as a player, I think it is probably unlikely. But again, that is a decision that only he can make. At the end of the day, it only gets harder, the older you get, particularly when you are not playing all year round and earmarking two months of the year for the IPL,” Moody said.

CSK will play their last game of the season against Gujarat Titans at the Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad, on Sunday.