Will MS Dhoni play IPL 2026? CSK legend brazenly admits knee ache

Chennai Super Kings captain MS Dhoni dropped a hint on his availability to play in IPL 2026 and it might worry fans. It is no secret that the 43-year-old, who happens to be the oldest player in IPL at present, has been struggling with a potential bad knee over the last two seasons. While there are never ending speculations on Dhoni’s future in the IPL, the CSK stalwart has addressed the possibility of him playing in the future.

CSK’s Dhoni admits he has weak knees

Speaking at an event, Dhoni stated that he has time until December to decide if he would play in IPL 2026 or not. The CSK captain told the host that he would take a couple of more months to make his decision. At the same time, a fan who was among the audience, insisted that Thala play in IPL 2026. To this, Dhoni responded wittily, asking who would take care of the pain in his knees.

 “I don’t know whether I’ll play or not. I have time to decide. I have some time until December, so I’ll take another couple of months, and then finally, I can make my decision. Arre, ghutne me jo dard hota hai uska take care kaun karega,” Dhoni said.

A lot of flak was directed at Dhoni for coming out to bat at 7 or 8 in IPL 2025. However, CSK coach Fleming had made it very clear that there were some issues with his knee that prevented him from running between the wickets and hence he made the conscious decision to face lesser number of deliveries.

At the end of CSK’s IPL 2025 campaign, Dhoni was asked whether it’s the final time fans are seeing him in the yellow jersey.

“It depends. I have 4-5 months to decide; there’s no hurry. Need to keep the body fit. You have to be at your best. If cricketers start retiring for their performance, some of them will retire at 22. I will go back to Ranchi and enjoy a few back rides. I am not saying I am done, not saying I am coming back. I have the luxury of timing. Will think about it and then decide,” Dhoni had said.