“Fleming Says MS Dhoni’s Importance to CSK Goes Beyond Playing in 2026”

MS Dhoni may not have featured on the field in IPL 2026, but Chennai Super Kings head coach Stephen Fleming believes the legendary captain remained one of the franchise’s most influential figures during a rebuilding season.

After CSK’s final home game of the campaign at the MA Chidambaram Stadium on Monday, Fleming praised Dhoni’s contribution behind the scenes, saying his guidance proved invaluable for a squad undergoing transition.

“MS has spent a lot of time with the team this season, and that has been hugely important for continuity and for helping the younger players settle in,” Fleming said at the post-match press conference.

“He may not have played, but his impact on the group has still been massive.”

Dhoni’s absence from the playing XI throughout the season triggered intense debate among fans and experts, especially with uncertainty continuing over his IPL future. However, Fleming stressed that the former India captain’s role extended far beyond match appearances.

“We’ve tried to build towards the future by bringing in players who can serve CSK for years to come. Of course, results are what teams are judged on, and we accept that,” Fleming said.

When asked if Dhoni was ever close to making a comeback as a player this season, Fleming made it clear that the veteran had committed himself to supporting the squad in a non-playing capacity.

“There’s been significant change in the side this year, and his presence throughout the season has helped. Last year was very different because he wasn’t around consistently,” he added.

Former CSK star Suresh Raina, meanwhile, is hopeful that Dhoni could still return for IPL 2027. Speaking after CSK’s traditional lap of honour at Chepauk, Raina shared details of his conversation with the iconic wicketkeeper-batter.

“I told him IPL 2026 shouldn’t count — it’s just a missed call. He has to come back next year,” Raina said with a smile.

According to Raina, Dhoni admitted that his body was no longer the same, but stopped short of ruling out another comeback.

“He said, ‘Let me see.’ And when MS says that, there is always a chance,” Raina added.

CSK, meanwhile, remain in a difficult position in the IPL 2026 points table after failing to defend 180 against Sunrisers Hyderabad. The five-time champions sit sixth with 12 points from 13 games and must beat Gujarat Titans in Ahmedabad on May 21, while also relying on other results, to keep their playoff hopes alive.