NEW DELHI: MS Dhoni has always meant more to Chennai Super Kings (CSK) than just being a cricketer. Even though he did not play a single match in IPL 2026 because of multiple injuries, he still remained the biggest talking point around the team. Fans got excited when he appeared at Chepauk during a matchday, hoping for a comeback, but reports later confirmed that another injury had ruled him out again. His absence throughout the season only increased the constant speculation over whether he would play one final game for CSK.
Former India batter Sanjay Manjrekar said he is tired of discussing the Dhoni situation and believes CSK became too emotional about their former captain instead of focusing on results and team balance.
“To be very honest, I've exhausted myself so much talking about another icon. I've got nothing left to say about Dhoni. And if you want a very short and brutally honest answer, it doesn't matter. Whether he plays, whether he doesn't play,” he told Sportstar Podcast.
Manjrekar clarified that his admiration for MS Dhoni remains unchanged because of what Dhoni achieved for India and CSK in his prime. He even said that a younger Dhoni could have taken this current CSK side into the playoffs with his leadership skills. According to Manjrekar, CSK’s biggest mistake this season was trying too hard to fit Dhoni into the squad despite his fitness struggles and age. He said the franchise should now focus more on current performances and winning matches rather than emotional attachment.
“CSK have learned one harsh lesson — don't get too emotional about your players. Be emotional about the reality, the performances, your current standing, the points table,” he said.
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