The dreadful day is closer than ever. MS Dhoni will retire from cricket after the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026. The legendary wicketkeeper batter has been battling injuries and fitness for the last few years. Finally, Dhoni has decided that it’s time for one final push before bidding the sport goodbye.
Dhoni, who retired from international cricket in 2020, continues to play for the Chennai Super Kings (CSK). However, his returns have decreased with each passing year. He’s been forced to push himself down the order. For many, seeing Dhoni play behind Ravichandran Ashwin at number eight in the IPL 2025 season was a bitter pill to swallow.
MS Dhoni to retire after IPL 2026
Dhoni underwent knee surgery in 2023, following which his mobility has visibly diminished. A few weeks ago, Dhoni shared that he’ll make a decision on his availability for CSK by December, before the IPL 2026 season. The 44-year-old emphasised the pain he’s been experiencing in his knee and how that will be the deciding factor for his decision.
Dhoni has communicated to his inner circle that he’ll play in the IPL 2026 edition. Granted, his body holds up. “He is going to play for one more year for sure before hanging his boots,” a source told Telecom Asia Sport.
Dhoni knows the end is near. The 44-year-old has started to prepare himself physically and mentally for his farewell. And he wishes to go out with a bang. Dhoni has been extremely disciplined with his preparations. The former CSK captain has been hitting the gym regularly and giving equal importance to cricket-related routines and workouts as well.
Some had speculated that the IPL 2025 would be Dhoni’s last season. A rare appearance from his parents only fuelled it. But it didn’t come. When the moment does come, expect the entire MA Chidambaram Stadium to turn up with number 7 jerseys and chant for the final time for ‘Thala’.
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