Chennai Super Kings have confirmed that MS Dhoni remains available to play for the franchise following the appointment of Zaheer Khan as Head Coach, providing clarity over the former Captain’s immediate position within the five-time IPL champions.
The development comes as CSK prepare for IPL 2027 with a new figure leading their coaching setup. Zaheer succeeds Stephen Fleming, whose long association with the franchise ended after his departure was announced in July.
Dhoni remains part of CSK’s playing plans
Dhoni did not feature during the IPL 2026 season because of injury issues, leaving questions over what role he could occupy as CSK moved towards their next campaign.
Chennai Super Kings Managing Director Kasi Viswanathan told The Indian Express: “He is available as a player.”
The confirmation keeps Dhoni within CSK’s playing setup rather than establishing a new formal coaching or mentoring position for him. His availability will coincide with Zaheer beginning his first season in charge of the franchise.
CSK begins new chapter under Zaheer
Zaheer arrives at CSK with previous IPL experience both on the field and in off-field roles. The former India fast bowler played 100 IPL matches and later moved into management and coaching positions, including a stint with Lucknow Super Giants.
His international career spanned 14 years and included 92 Tests, 200 ODIs and 17 T20Is for India. He was also part of India’s 2011 World Cup-winning squad.
CSK Owner Rupa Gurunath said in an official statement: “Zaheer’s distinguished playing career and proven ability to nurture young talent make him a valuable addition to our setup. We are confident that his guidance will help strengthen the core of this franchise.”
The appointment places Zaheer at the head of CSK’s coaching operation as the franchise transitions away from the Fleming era and prepares its squad for the next IPL cycle.
CSK backs Zaheer’s mentoring experience
Zaheer’s work with developing players, particularly fast bowlers, forms part of the experience CSK are bringing into their new coaching structure.
In an official statement, Viswanathan said: “Zaheer is a world-class bowler and has been a mentor to many young cricketers, especially fast bowlers, over the years. As a player, Zaheer was one of the key reasons for India’s success in the 2000s. He’s one of the finest cricketing brains, and we look forward to having him in our family.”
The franchise’s next confirmed step is IPL 2027, when Zaheer is set to begin his tenure at the helm of CSK’s coaching setup.
