With the IPL 2026 set to start from 28th of March, it will once again be the five-time champions, the Chennai Super Kings in the limelight. Last year's tournament was not a good one for them as they finished bottom in the table. They will look to make amends in the upcoming season with a new squad.

 

However, there is one thing that has not changed, and that's MS Dhoni's presence in the squad. Still playing at the age of 44, the former Indian captain will once again create a stir among fans as people are already questioning if this is his last season with the team.

 

Former Indian captain Sourav Ganguly has finally come forward with a very firm reply to these speculations.

 

Ganguly's Bold Response to Dhoni's Future

 

While speaking to Sports Now during an event, where he was unveiled as the JAKSON brand ambassador, Sourav Ganguly remained tight-lipped on MS Dhoni's potential retirement from the IPL.

 

Ganguly responded:

 

"I will tell (MS) Dhoni what to do and not to the media."

 

His one-line answer proves he wants to avoid anything that is being discussed publicly but at the same time is also trying to keep himself out of this conversation.

 

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MS Dhoni's Role in IPL 2026

 

MS Dhoni, even at 44, will be a key component in the CSK team. He is expected to play a multi-faceted role this season as he would not only represent the team on the field but will also be seen guiding the youngsters and building a new team after last year's below-par performance.

 

His experience would be of great importance especially considering that the team is aiming for a strong comeback and he might even be seen in a mentor role along with being a playing member for the team.

 

Ganguly on Absence of Foreign Players

 

The former Indian captain also expressed his views on the presence of foreign players missing part of the IPL 2026. The top stars will not be able to join the franchises from the start of the tournament.

 

Cricket Australia denied No Objection Certificates (NOCs) to Josh Hazlewood, Pat Cummins, and Mitchell Starc due to injury and workload management issues. Punjab Kings would be without Lockie Ferguson for their first seven matches as he chose to stay with his family.

 

Ganguly admitted that although this will have a negative impact on the teams it will open opportunities for others.

 

Ganguly added:

 

"It hurts when foreign players miss out for whatever reason so close to the tournament, but it also creates opportunity. I made my test debut because Sanjay Manjrekar got injured so it doesn’t always happen in the right way but like I said it is an opportunity. But having said that the entire system is shaken of a franchise."

 

All eyes will be on the CSK and MS Dhoni ahead of the IPL 2026 which will be starting from March 28.