MS Dhoni to decide on IPL 2027 participation before December

Former India captain MS Dhoni said on October 25, 2026 at a healthcare event in Bengaluru that he will decide whether to play in the Indian Premier League 2027 before December after undergoing medical tests. He added that his fitness would be a major factor in determining his availability for the next season.

Chennai Super Kings last won the IPL title in 2023 but have struggled for consistency since, and the franchise will look to bounce back in 2027 after two difficult seasons. CSK finished last in 2025 and in eighth spot in 2026. The five-time IPL-winning captain last led CSK to the title in 2023 before handing over the captaincy to Ruturaj Gaikwad ahead of the 2024 season.

Dhoni said he would undergo medical tests before making any decision. “Doc, I will have to go through the tests. You will have to give me the report, and then before December, I will have to see, you know, how strong I am to maybe play one more season,” Dhoni said.

He also joked about his fitness, describing himself as an “old vintage car” that still needs to keep running for another year.

Due to fitness issues, Dhoni could not play the entire IPL 2026, leaving his return for the upcoming season uncertain. He also acknowledged Chennai Super Kings’ struggles over the past two seasons and stressed that a team’s strength on paper does not necessarily translate into success on the field.

Dhoni has not confirmed whether he will feature in IPL 2027; his final decision will be closely watched as Chennai Super Kings prepare for the next edition.