Dhoni set to play IPL 2026 as Srinivasan returns as CSK Chai

The Chennai Super Kings (CSK), one of the most iconic franchises in the history of the Indian Premier League (IPL), have just made a major announcement that could significantly alter their future. With the 2026 IPL mini-auction on the horizon, CSK confirmed on Wednesday that former BCCI president and ICC chairman N Srinivasan is officially returning to the franchise. Alongside him, his daughter Rupa Gurunath is also making a comeback ahead of the tournament’s 19th season.

This development is more than just a reshuffle in management—it could directly impact the most crucial question every IPL fan has been asking for years: Will MS Dhoni play another season?

Srinivasan and Gurunath Return: A “Great Boon” for CSK

CSK CEO Kasi Viswanathan described Srinivasan and Gurunath’s return as nothing short of a blessing.

“See, it’s a great boon for CSK and he’s been the best administrator for us and I’m very happy that he’s come back into CSK. He’ll be in an advisory role only because he doesn’t travel much, but we’ll be in contact with him,” Viswanathan told PTI.

While Srinivasan, at 80 years of age, won’t be traveling with the team, he will assume the chairmanship of Chennai Super Kings Cricket Limited (CSKCL), the parent company that owns CSK and its sister franchises across international leagues. His daughter, Rupa Gurunath, will be more actively involved, taking up the position of full-time director.

Viswanathan also confirmed that Srinivasan remains in constant touch with the management, saying:

“Both of us are in Chennai only. So he’s in day-to-day contact with us.”

Why Srinivasan’s Return Is Significant

Srinivasan stepping back into the CSK fold is noteworthy for several reasons. Once a towering figure in Indian cricket administration, Srinivasan had retired from active roles, especially after India Cements, where he served as CEO and Managing Director, was acquired by UltraTech Cement last year.

What makes this return even more fascinating is that this is the first time Srinivasan has been officially named on CSKCL’s board of directors.

This development comes just months after CSK endured their most disappointing season yet—finishing at the bottom of the points table for the first time in IPL history. It also arrives at a time when MS Dhoni’s future as a player in the world’s richest T20 league hangs in the balance.

Some insiders believe that Srinivasan and Gurunath’s re-entry into the franchise is a direct response to CSK’s consecutive playoff failures. After clinching their fifth title in 2023, the Super Kings narrowly missed the playoffs in 2024 and then completely collapsed in 2025.

The return of Srinivasan, therefore, is not just administrative—it could be a catalyst for CSK’s revival in 2026.

The Srinivasan-Dhoni Equation

One immediate impact of Srinivasan’s return could be on MS Dhoni’s playing career.

The legendary captain, who underwent knee surgery in 2023 and has battled fitness concerns since, has repeatedly hinted at retirement. At 44, his body is clearly not what it once was. Yet, Dhoni remains the emotional core of CSK, and his bond with Srinivasan could well extend his career for one more season.

Dhoni has often been described as a player fiercely loyal to Srinivasan, who has long been one of his strongest backers. Their relationship goes beyond cricket—often likened to that of a father and son.

According to a report by RevSportz, Srinivasan’s appointment as CSKCL chairman coincided with fresh whispers that Dhoni is preparing for “one last dance” in IPL 2026.

Insiders claim Srinivasan may have personally convinced Dhoni to wear the yellow jersey one final time.

Dhoni’s Dilemma: Can His Body Keep Up?

Despite his passion for the game, Dhoni has been candid about his physical struggles. During a public event in August 2025, when a fan urged him to play in IPL 2026, Dhoni humorously replied:

“Who will take care of the pain in my knees?”

That light-hearted response carried a serious undertone. While Dhoni’s spirit and competitive drive remain intact, the wear and tear on his body could dictate his final decision.

Still, reports suggest he is inclined to give his fans and CSK one more season—especially with Srinivasan back at the helm.

A Farewell on His Own Terms

Should Dhoni step onto the field in IPL 2026, it will mark his 18th season in the league, having been part of the IPL since its inception in 2008.

A final season would not just be about cricket—it would be about giving his fans a farewell worthy of his stature. The sight of Chepauk bathed in yellow, the crowd chanting “Dhoni! Dhoni!”, and the possibility of one last iconic finish—this is the send-off fans dream of for their beloved “Thala.”

Dhoni has always been a man who decides his own fate. And if this is indeed his final chapter, he will ensure it ends on his terms, whether or not it comes with another trophy.

What Lies Ahead for CSK

If Dhoni does play in 2026, CSK will not just be looking at nostalgia—they will be counting on his leadership, game sense, and influence over younger players like Ruturaj Gaikwad, who is expected to carry the baton forward.

With Srinivasan as chairman and Gurunath as director, CSK will also have a strong administrative backbone. Srinivasan will focus on both the IPL team and CSKCL’s global ventures, offering strategic inputs while Gurunath manages day-to-day operations.

This new leadership setup, combined with Dhoni’s possible farewell season, sets up IPL 2026 as one of the most anticipated campaigns in the franchise’s history.

The return of N Srinivasan and Rupa Gurunath to Chennai Super Kings could mark the beginning of a new era for the five-time champions. For fans, however, the biggest talking point is how Srinivasan’s influence might ensure MS Dhoni’s one final appearance in the IPL.

If that happens, IPL 2026 will not just be about cricket—it will be about witnessing the end of an era, celebrating a legend, and watching CSK attempt a glorious comeback under the watchful eyes of Srinivasan and the guiding hands of their eternal captain.

In the end, whether CSK lift another trophy or not, Dhoni’s farewell will be nothing short of a festival.

With inputs from agencies

Image Source: Multiple agencies