Archive · 3 Sep 2026
Dhoni Rejects Impact Player Role as IPL 2027 Future Uncertain
MS Dhoni is deciding whether he will play in the IPL in 2027.
He has said he does not want to play only as an Impact Player.
Instead, he wants to be the team’s full-time wicketkeeper.
That means he would stay on the field for all 20 overs.
Former CSK batter Subramaniam Badrinath thinks the Impact Player role could be better for Dhoni’s body.
It could let Dhoni bat late and avoid keeping for the entire innings.
Dhoni has not confirmed whether he will return for another IPL season.
He has led Chennai Super Kings to five IPL titles.
Mahendra Singh Dhoni told former CSK batter Subramaniam Badrinath he will not play as an Impact Player.
Dhoni wants to remain a full-time wicketkeeper if he continues in the IPL.
The decision has increased uncertainty over Dhoni’s participation in IPL 2027 and beyond.
Badrinath believes the Impact Player role could reduce Dhoni’s workload and benefit CSK tactically.
The 45-year-old Dhoni has faced fitness concerns and recently played a more limited batting role.
- Who
- Mahendra Singh Dhoni, with comments from former Chennai Super Kings batter Subramaniam Badrinath.
- What
- Dhoni has rejected playing as an Impact Player and wants to remain a full-time wicketkeeper.
- When
- The comments concern IPL 2027 and beyond; Dhoni stepped down as CSK captain before the 2024 season.
- Where
- The Indian Premier League, involving Chennai Super Kings.
- Why
- Dhoni prefers the responsibilities of a full-time wicketkeeper, while Badrinath says the Impact Player role could reduce his workload amid fitness concerns.
Dhoni’s Position
Badrinath’s View
Playing role
Dhoni’s Position
Dhoni has told Badrinath that he will not play as an Impact Player and wants to remain a full-time wicketkeeper.
Badrinath’s View
Badrinath believes Dhoni would be ideal as an Impact Player because his batting involvement has been limited and keeping for 20 overs is physically demanding.
Workload and fitness
Dhoni’s Position
Dhoni’s preferred role requires him to stay on the field for the full 20 overs if he continues playing.
Badrinath’s View
Badrinath says the Impact Player role could ease Dhoni’s workload while preserving his finishing ability and experience.
IPL 2027 future
Dhoni’s Position
Dhoni’s refusal to adopt the Impact Player role leaves his return for another season uncertain.
Badrinath’s View
Badrinath believes the rule could tactically benefit Dhoni and Chennai Super Kings and potentially help extend his career.
- Player
- Mahendra Singh Dhoni
- Age
- 45
- Preferred role
- Full-time wicketkeeper
- Rejected role
- Impact Player
- Team
- Chennai Super Kings
- IPL titles led
- Five
- Future in question
- Participation in IPL 2027 and beyond
