IPL 2026 to be Dhoni's last season? Here's what Robin Uthappa said

Mahendra Singh Dhoni is set to turn out once again for Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in the Indian Premier League (IPL), but former India cricketer Robin Uthappa believes the upcoming season could mark the end of the road for the veteran wicketkeeper-batter.

Speaking on JioHotstar, Uthappa said IPL 2026 is likely to be Dhoni’s final appearance in the yellow jersey. He suggested that the 44-year-old may take on a hybrid role this season, contributing more as a mentor while gradually stepping back as a player.

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“I see him playing more of a mentor-cum-player role this year. I don’t think he will bat at No. 7; he could drop down to No. 8. Knowing he is on his way out, he may look to ease himself out of the setup,” Uthappa said.

Dhoni remains one of only four players to have featured in every IPL season, alongside Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, and Manish Pandey. Over 278 matches, he has scored 5,439 runs at an average of 38 and a strike rate of 137, placing him sixth on the all-time run-scorers’ list.

Uthappa also weighed in on CSK’s leadership dynamics, dismissing the idea of handing captaincy duties to new recruit Sanju Samson. Instead, he backed Ruturaj Gaikwad to continue as the franchise’s long-term captain.

“You need to give Ruturaj time. He has been leading since 2024 and is still stepping out of Dhoni’s shadow. The team must allow him to grow into the role and establish himself fully,” he said.

Gaikwad, 29, was appointed captain in 2024, with CSK finishing fifth that season. In the following edition, an injury ruled him out midway, prompting Dhoni to resume captaincy as CSK endured a disappointing campaign and finished last.

Uthappa reiterated his support for Gaikwad’s leadership going forward, adding that the franchise can always turn to Samson in the future if needed.

With ANI Inputs