Will MS Dhoni play in IPL 2026? Here's WHAT Thalaiva said

Chennai: Having taken over the reins of five time IPL winner Chennai Super Kings (CSK) from injured Ruturaj Gaikwad this year, taismanic leader M S Dhoni confirmed his participation for next year's edition and that Ruturaj will be back as skipper and lead the team.

Speaking after attending a private event, he said he recalled his long standing association with Chennai, the love, affection and support he received from the Chennai fans.

His love for Chennai stood pronounced when he said it was this city which gave him the first test in 2005 and the first match in IPL in 2008.

Dhoni admitted to the team's issues and the balance in this year's edition but vowed that the CSK's batting would be strengthened next year.

“We are slightly worried about our batting order. But I think our batting order is quite sorted

out now. Rutu (Gaikwad) will be coming back. He got injured. But he will be coming back.

So, we are quite sorted now,” said Dhoni.