Mahendra Singh Dhoni’s future in the IPL remains a major talking point ahead of the 2027 season. Former Chennai Super Kings batter Subramaniam Badrinath has revealed that Dhoni does not want to play as an impact player if he continues in the tournament. According to Badrinath, Dhoni has made it clear that he would prefer to play as a full-time wicketkeeper and stay on the field for the entire 20 overs rather than come in only to bat.
The impact player option could have helped the 45-year-old reduce the physical demands of wicketkeeping while still contributing with the bat. Badrinath believes this role would suit Dhoni given his age and fitness concerns. Badrinath also pointed out that Dhoni generally bats in the latter stages of an innings, making the impact-player role a potentially useful option for CSK. It could allow the team to use his finishing skills while reducing the workload on his body.
However, Dhoni’s reported preference means his fitness will be a key factor in deciding whether he can continue in the IPL. If he plays in 2027, he would have to handle the demands of keeping wickets for the full 20 overs. Dhoni stepped down as CSK captain before the 2024 season, and his batting role has become more limited since then. Despite this, his experience and ability to finish games remain valuable to the franchise.
Dhoni has guided CSK to five IPL titles. With his stance on the impact-player role reportedly clear, the biggest question now is whether his body will allow him to continue as a full-time wicketkeeper for another IPL season.