Overview:
Ashwin believes Dhoni can manage the bowlers and control the game from behind the stumps.
Former India player Ravichandran Ashwin has opined on MS Dhoni’s role for Chennai Super Kings ahead of the IPL 2026, saying the veteran shouldn’t play if the team decides to use him as an Impact Player.
There have been speculations that the wicket-keeper batter is likely to sit out of the few games, and his role will be limited in the 19th season of the league. Ashwin wants Dhoni to be a part of the Playing XI.
“MS Dhoni shouldn’t be on the Impact Player list. If he is in the squad, he has to play. If he doesn’t want to, he shouldn’t play the entire season. I am not in favour of him going out as an Impact player,” R Ashwin said.
Ashwin mentioned that Dhoni’s presence in the group should end the debate over his place in the XI, highlighting the fact that the former skipper’s belief.
“If you’re picking a CSK XI and Dhoni is in the squad, the debate should end. He has to play. He would retire if he didn’t want to play. He has been practising for the past three months. He is giving the message that he is ready to play. You can’t tell him that he can’t play if he is ready to be a part of the team,” he added.
Ashwin acknowledged that Dhoni is not among the top six batters anymore, but the legendary spinner feels he can still be a useful wicket-keeper and guide captain Ruturaj Gaikwad.
“I agree he is not among your top six batters, but he can still play a double role. He can be the on-field mentor for Ruturaj Gaikwad,” Ashwin explained.
Ashwin believes Dhoni can manage the bowlers and control the game from behind the stumps. “I think Dhoni can play a crucial role in supporting the new bowling unit. He wanted to play the last three overs in the previous season, but the top order failed to fire, and he had to come in earlier. They have added power to the top order for this season to avoid that situation.”
He added that a stronger batting order could allow Dhoni to finish games. “There will be a few games where he will bat higher, and the remaining contests he will come in at the death overs. His main role will be wicket-keeping and setting the field,” Ashwin highlighted.
Ashwin said Dhoni’s preparations show his intent.
“We have been seeing his videos, and he has been in practice mode for the last three months. He can contribute as a player; otherwise, he will not continue,” he concluded.
