Dhoni’s role takes spotlight as Samson trade rumours swirl
As speculation intensifies around a potential blockbuster trade that could bring Sanju Samson to Chennai Super Kings, the debate over MS Dhoni’s role in the upcoming IPL season has taken centre stage. While the franchise navigates a rebuilding phase after a disappointing IPL 2025, former CSK batter Subramaniam Badrinath has presented a firm view on how the team is likely to approach Dhoni’s involvement. Speaking on Star Sports, he outlined why Dhoni will continue to be part of the starting XI if he chooses to play.
Badrinath insists Dhoni will not be used as an impact substitute
Badrinath dismissed suggestions that Dhoni could shift to the impact player role should Samson arrive as a wicketkeeper-batter. “I don’t think MS Dhoni will play as an impact player. If he plays, he will feature as a keeper. The main reason of Dhoni playing is he needs to be out there at the Chepauk. As an impact player, he might come out to bat only in the final two overs. We don’t know if he comes out to bat in that case. I don’t think that’s going to happen, that’s my observation, knowing CSK and Dhoni. He might not even play the full season but he will be there as a wicketkeeper, not sure as captain. But he will definitely be as a keeper on the field. He said he will be on the field to play. It will not happen that Dhoni is off the field and leave someone like Sanju Samson to keep wickets. He will take this decision and speak to Sanju Samson.”
His assessment signals a belief that Dhoni’s presence behind the stumps and influence on the field remain integral parts of CSK’s tactical identity, irrespective of any roster changes the franchise may consider.
Dhoni’s influence remains central even under Gaikwad
Badrinath also stressed that Dhoni’s value extends beyond runs or selection status. In his view, the former captain still shapes the team’s on-field dynamics, even with Ruturaj Gaikwad leading the side. “That’s my understanding, I don’t think MS Dhoni is going to be an impact player at all. Either he is going to play or call it, ‘I’m done’. Look at these visuals, this is MS Dhoni, this is the value he carries, those small adjustments, some conversation with the bowlers. Even though Ruturaj Gaikwad is the captain, he still has some control over the proceedings. That’s where his value is.”
His comments underline the leadership continuity Dhoni provides within the group — an element CSK may consider essential as they weigh options for the 2026 season, including whether to pursue a trade for Samson.
What Dhoni’s decision could mean for CSK’s rebuild
CSK’s 2025 campaign ended at the bottom of the table, prompting the franchise to explore significant changes across personnel and structure. If Dhoni chooses to play on, Badrinath’s view suggests the franchise is likely to preserve him in his traditional role as wicketkeeper, ensuring his strategic instincts and influence remain active on the field.
With trade rumours swirling and a mini-auction on the horizon, Dhoni’s potential involvement — coupled with the possibility of adding a marquee player like Samson — is set to be a defining storyline as CSK charts its path toward a stronger IPL 2026.
