'IPL 2026 is likely to be MS Dhoni's last': Former CSK star makes big prediction
Robin Uthappa predicts IPL 2026 could be MS Dhoni's final season with CSK, suggesting a shift to a mentor-cum-player role. Dhoni's 2025 season saw him step in as captain due to Ruturaj Gaikwad's injury, while continuing his wicketkeeping excellence, reaching 200 dismissals.
The future of MS Dhoni in the IPL has once again become a major talking point after former India cricketer Robin Uthappa suggested that IPL 2026 could mark the end of Dhoni’s illustrious career with Chennai Super Kings. Speaking on JioHotstar’s TATA IPL: Out or Out of the Park, Uthappa offered a detailed perspective on Dhoni’s evolving role, leadership transition within CSK, and what the upcoming season could mean for the franchise icon. According to Uthappa, Dhoni’s role in the upcoming season is expected to evolve significantly.
Rather than being a central on-field figure, he could take a step back and operate more as a guide for Ruturaj as Captain. “I don't think CSK should hand over the leadership duties to Sanju Samson. You have to give Ruturaj Gaikwad time to settle as captain.
He has been leading the team since 2024. No matter what people say, he is coming out of the shadow of MS Dhoni. You want him to come out completely and stand in his own light.
You want to see what he can produce. You want him to lead the team when MS is not playing and stand on his own, without that overwhelming feeling of always being under that energy. So I think you can see Dhoni being a little more hands-off,'' Uthappa said Uthappa made a bold and emotional prediction about Dhoni’s future, indicating that the 2026 season could be his farewell.