'CSK don’t benefit from MS Dhoni': Controversial take from ex-India teammate goes viral
Irfan Pathan left MS Dhoni out of his CSK XI for IPL 2026, saying his limited lower-order role doesn’t benefit the team. He suggested Sarfaraz Khan at No. 6 instead, unless Dhoni bats more.
Pathan’s squad includes new faces, reflecting CSK’s rebuild after poor seasons, with the upcoming campaign crucial for defining Dhoni’s future role.
NEW DELHI: Former India cricketer Irfan Pathan has stirred debate ahead of IPL 2026 by leaving MS Dhoni out of his preferred Chennai Super Kings (CSK) playing XI. He feels Dhoni’s current role as a lower-order batter, who faces very few balls, doesn’t add enough value to the team unless he takes on more responsibility. Pathan explained that while Dhoni remains a legend, his limited time at the crease doesn’t always help the team.
He suggested that a more active batter like Sarfaraz Khan should take that spot instead. “Sarfaraz Khan has a place in this team at number six," Pathan said on his YouTube channel. “But if MS Dhoni says he’ll play regularly… because at some time, even the world’s best batter has to retire.
Will he play all games? Will he not? I have been saying this for a long time, him being out there for two overs are certainly pleasing for Dhoni’s fans, but CSK don’t benefit from it.