The Chennai Super Kings (CSK) squad for the upcoming IPL season presents a fascinating puzzle, centered on the legendary MS Dhoni. With the acquisition of Sanju Samson and the presence of other wicketkeeping options, the big question emerging from the auction is: what will be Thala's role? Speculation is rife that the iconic captain might be utilized as an Impact Player in IPL 2025.
The Wicketkeeper Logjam and Succession Planning
CSK's strategy at the auctions in Abu Dhabi made their long-term vision clear. They secured the services of Indian star Sanju Samson, widely seen as the ideal long-term replacement for the 44-year-old Dhoni. This came after they had already brought in Urvil Patel midway through the last season. Adding to the mix is uncapped 19-year-old Kartik Sharma, a hard-hitting batsman acquired at the mini-auction.
This gives CSK a total of four wicketkeepers in their roster. Head coach Stephen Fleming openly admitted this is part of a deliberate succession plan. "We were also looking at [the fact that] at some point MS will move on. Sanju is an international-quality player... so succession planning," Fleming stated on December 17, 2025. He emphasized building a team for "Chennai in six years' time, not two."
Dhoni's Physical Limits and the Impact Player Strategy
Dhoni has been grappling with a knee issue for the last couple of seasons, significantly limiting his batting. He has often batted as low as No. 8 to face only a handful of deliveries. Previously, CSK persisted with him behind the stumps due to a lack of quality alternatives. Now, with Samson a certain starter and others providing depth, CSK has flexibility.
This opens the door for a tactical use of the Impact Player rule. One scenario could see CSK fielding a specialist batsman in the starting XI and introducing Dhoni as the Impact Player during a chase, solely for his wicketkeeping and legendary finishing skills. Conversely, if he starts, they could substitute him with a bowler while batting second.
The core of this decision hinges on a critical trade-off: Dhoni's cricketing intelligence and guidance versus the utility of an extra bowler. His presence is considered vital for a young squad; at least five potential players are in the 18-23 age bracket.
The Unwavering Influence of Thala
Despite Ruturaj Gaikwad being the official captain, Dhoni's influence on field placements and crunch-time strategies has remained significant. After scoring a century, Gaikwad himself acknowledged, "there is just one boss in CSK," referring to Dhoni. This mentorship role is a huge asset CSK would want to leverage, potentially from behind the stumps rather than just the dugout.
His final role, however, remains contingent on fitness. While Dhoni is training in Ranchi, a decision on his participation in all games will be taken closer to the tournament. The key difference now is that CSK finally have credible options if Dhoni isn't fit to start, a security they lacked in previous years.
The IPL 2025 season is set to be a defining chapter, testing CSK's strategic acumen in managing a transition while maximizing the enduring genius of MS Dhoni, possibly in a new, dynamic role.
