Will MS Dhoni Return For IPL 2026? Thala Gives HUGE Update, Says 'I Have The Luxury Of Timing'

MS Dhoni has once again chosen to keep fans guessing about his cricketing future, stating that he will take a few months before making any definitive decision on whether to continue playing.

The 43-year-old, who stepped up to lead Chennai Super Kings (CSK) midway through IPL 2025 following Ruturaj Gaikwad's injury, guided his side to a morale-boosting victory in their final league game in Ahmedabad. However, when asked about what lies ahead, the former India skipper remained non-committal.

"It depends, you know. Again, I would say the same thing. I have 4-5 months to decide. There is no hurry to decide," Dhoni remarked at the post-match presentation after the GT vs CSK match at the Narendra Modi Stadium.

This season, Dhoni was the oldest player in the IPL. Despite limited appearances with the bat, he contributed 196 runs from 13 innings, often playing in the lower middle order. His highest score was 30. More significantly, he helped CSK to three of their four wins this season during his leadership stint after Gaikwad's injury.

"Every year, it's 15% more effort. To keep the body fit. Not to forget this is top level cricket. It's professional cricket. You have to be at your best," he noted, acknowledging the physical demands of continuing at the elite level.

Dhoni also touched on how decisions about retirement shouldn't solely be based on numbers. "It's not always performance that you can count. Because if cricketers start retiring because of performances, few of them will retire when they are 22. So what is important is to see how much hunger you have. What kind of fitness you have. And how much you can contribute to the team. Whether the team needs you or not."

Reflecting on his immediate plans, he said, "So [I] have enough time and go back to Ranchi. I haven't been home for a long time... enjoy a few bike rides... [take a] couple of months then decide."

Pressed again about his plans, Dhoni left the door open. "I am not saying I am done. I am not saying I am coming back here at the same time. As I said, I have the luxury of timing. When you have the luxury, why not? Think about it and then you can decide'', he concluded.