Dhoni pledges a more robust return for CSK in the upcoming IPL season
Chennai Super Kings (CSK) are gearing up for the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 season, aiming to bounce back from their disappointing performance in the previous edition. The team, currently at the bottom of the table, is focusing on strengthening their squad through a combination of returning key players and strategic acquisitions during the upcoming mini-auction in December 2025.
Mahendra Singh Dhoni, the team's captain, expressed optimism for the upcoming season. He acknowledged that the last couple of seasons didn't meet expectations but emphasized that things are shaping up well for CSK. Dhoni highlighted the importance of processes and results in sports, indicating a commitment to improving the team's performance.
One of the key players expected to return is Ruturaj Gaikwad, who missed most of IPL 2025 due to an elbow injury. Dhoni believes Gaikwad's comeback will be crucial in bolstering the team's top order. The captain expressed confidence that Gaikwad's return will help fix the team's batting issues, which have been somewhat unsettled according to Dhoni.
In addition to Gaikwad's return, CSK is planning to acquire top batsmen and versatile all-rounders through the mini-auction. Potential targets include explosive batters like Glenn Maxwell, aggressive wicketkeeper-batters such as Jonny Bairstow, and all-rounders offering both batting depth and bowling options like Shardul Thakur and Jason Holder.
Dhoni also hinted at the possibility of playing for several more years but acknowledged the need for squad evolution. He emphasized that the team's future participation and some senior players nearing retirement will necessitate a flexible leadership approach to rebuild the team's competitiveness.
There are speculations about a potential move to bring in Rajasthan Royals wicketkeeper-batsman Sanju Samson to strengthen CSK's batting. However, no official confirmation has been made regarding Samson's potential move to CSK.
As the countdown to IPL 2026 begins, CSK is working hard to fix the issues that led to their recent struggles. With a focus on recovering from their lowest performance, integrating young and dynamic talent, and maintaining a flexible leadership approach, CSK is hopeful of returning to their best next year. Dhoni, ever the optimist, expressed his belief that CSK will be back to their winning ways, ready to light up the IPL once again.
Sports news regarding Chennai Super Kings (CSK) highlights their focus on improving their health and performance for the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 season. Mahendra Singh Dhoni, CSK's captain, acknowledges the team's need to strengthen their squad and intensifies their career prospects by strategically acquiring top batsmen and versatile all-rounders during the December 2025 mini-auction, such as Glenn Maxwell, Jonny Bairstow, Shardul Thakur, Jason Holder, and even potential transfer Rajasthan Royals wicketkeeper-batsman Sanju Samson, to address their unsettled batting issues.
