CSK deny MS Dhoni ownership demand and say his IPL 2027 plans are undecided

Chennai Super Kings chief executive Kasi Viswanathan on August 30, 2026 told PTI he rejected reports that MS Dhoni had sought an ownership stake in the franchise and said Dhoni had not yet committed to playing in the 2027 Indian Premier League.

A report attributed to Cricblogger suggested Dhoni initially sought a 25 per cent share before lowering the figure to 20 per cent and that CSK had offered 5.5 per cent; none of those claims have been independently confirmed and have prompted speculation about a rift between the former captain and the franchise. The report also noted Dhoni did not play a single game this season due to an injury and CSK exited before the playoffs.

Viswanathan rejected the ownership reports in direct terms, saying: "The rumours are completely baseless," said Viswanathan told PTI.

On Dhoni's playing future, Viswanathan said the former India captain had not ruled out participation in the 2027 IPL and urged patience: "Dhoni hasn't yet said he won't play. So lets wait," said Viswanathan.

Viswanathan reiterated that CSK had held no formal discussions with Dhoni about his role and that the franchise would welcome him in any capacity, saying: “We have not discussed anything with MS as of now. MS takes his decisions on his own, and we respect that,” Kasi said. “We would always like to have him as a permanent fixture at CSK in whatever capacity — be it as a player, coach or mentor, whatever he would like. Any decision depends on him.”

It remains to be seen if Dhoni will be a part of CSK next season. But in the meantime, Dhoni seems to be enjoying life outside of the track at the moment.