Former Chennai Super Kings player Robin Uthappa has shared his perspective on MS Dhoni’s potential departure from the IPL, suggesting that the current moment is opportune for him to step away from the franchise. Uthappa highlighted that CSK is already well into a significant transition phase, making it a natural juncture for Dhoni’s exit.
Speaking about Dhoni’s evolving role, Uthappa observed a gradual reduction in his on-field responsibilities over the seasons. This shift became more apparent after Dhoni reassumed the captaincy from Ravindra Jadeja. Uthappa noted that leadership duties have been progressively transferred to Ruturaj Gaikwad, with each passing season seeing a greater share of the burden fall on the younger player.
“I don’t think his role changes dramatically because this transition has been ongoing for a while,” Uthappa explained. “Ever since the captaincy returned to him from Ravindra Jadeja, you could see responsibility shifting year after year. Each season, more of it has moved towards Ruturaj Gaikwad. When you look at this squad now, it genuinely feels like the right time for Dhoni to step away.”
This sentiment comes as CSK has shown increasing faith in Ruturaj Gaikwad as their long-term captain. Despite a challenging first season where the team missed the playoffs, and Gaikwad’s mid-tournament injury in IPL 2025 due to an elbow fracture, the franchise appears committed to his leadership. Gaikwad’s absence significantly impacted CSK’s performance, leading to their unprecedented finish at the bottom of the points table in IPL 2025.
The signs of a planned leadership transition have become increasingly evident within CSK. While Dhoni has been a foundational figure for nearly 18 seasons, the team management seems poised for a future without him. This strategic planning was further underscored by the acquisition of Sanju Samson, who is widely anticipated to be the next wicketkeeper-batsman after Dhoni. Alongside grooming a new captain and successor behind the stumps, CSK also made substantial investments in emerging Indian talent at the IPL 2026 mini-auction. Significant funds were allocated to uncapped players Prashant Veer and Kartik Sharma, with each securing Rs 14.2 crore. Veer is seen as a potential heir to Ravindra Jadeja, boasting skills as a left-arm spinner and a left-handed batter. Kartik Sharma, a highly-rated wicketkeeper-batsman in domestic cricket, also drew considerable interest from multiple IPL franchises.
The success of these strategic signings and the team’s future performance will be closely watched as the tournament approaches.