Now former Indian cricketer and former Chennai Super Kings (CSK) player Robin Uthappa has given a big statement on all the speculations going on about the future of Mahendra Singh Dhoni. Uthappa believes that IPL 2026 will be Dhoni’s last season and after that he will definitely retire. Regarding 44-year-old Dhoni, Uthappa said that now there is no scope left for any kind of if-but.
CSK’s changed strategy
According to Uthappa, CSK’s recent strategy clearly indicates that the franchise has prepared for the future. Instead of relying on experienced players, the team is now investing heavily in young and uncapped players. CSK spent a total of Rs 28.20 crore on two young cricketers in the IPL 2026 mini auction. CSK bought 19-year-old Uttar Pradesh spin all-rounder Prashant Veer for Rs 14.20 crore. Apart from this, 20-year-old wicketkeeper-batsman Karthik Sharma was also included in the team for Rs 14.20 crore, making both of them the most expensive uncapped Indian players in IPL auction history.
Signs of change in Dhoni’s role
Robin Uthappa said in a conversation with JioHotstar, ‘I think everything is clear now. This is going to be MS Dhoni’s last season. Now there is no need to make any kind of speculation. After this year he will retire completely. The way CSK has been investing in youth for the last few seasons, it shows that the team is focusing on finding talent, honing it and retaining it for the long term.
Dhoni in the role of mentor
Uthappa believes that Dhoni will remain associated with CSK even after leaving the field. He said, ‘If Dhoni does not play, he will definitely mentor the team. This season he will be seen in the role of mentor-cum-player. He is already looking at things from the same perspective. Uthappa also described the presence of Sanju Samson in CSK and the captaincy of Ruturaj Gaikwad as preparation for the future.
big expenditure on youth
CSK spent Rs 41 crore out of the Rs 43.40 crore purse in the mini auction, of which Rs 28.4 crore was spent on just two uncapped players. This is a clear indication that the franchise is building a strong foundation for the post-Dhoni era. This may be an emotional moment for Dhoni’s fans, but for CSK it is being considered a thoughtful and far-sighted strategy.
