1 hr ago
Former CSK Player Says Dhoni Rejects Impact Player Role
MS Dhoni’s role for Chennai Super Kings in the 2026 IPL is uncertain.
One question is whether he will play as a regular player or an Impact Player.
Former CSK cricketer Badrinath said Dhoni told him he would not choose the Impact Player role.
Dhoni reportedly wants to keep wickets for the entire 20-over innings.
Badrinath said this could be difficult for Dhoni’s body.
He also said Dhoni may bat only after the 16th over.
Badrinath believes CSK could gain a tactical advantage by using Dhoni as an Impact Player.
However, Dhoni’s stated preference is to play as a full-time wicketkeeper.
MS Dhoni reportedly told Badrinath he would not play as an Impact Player.
Dhoni sees himself as a full-time wicketkeeper who should remain on the field for 20 overs.
Badrinath said Dhoni’s body may not withstand long durations on the field.
Badrinath believes CSK could benefit tactically if Dhoni served as an Impact Player.
The discussion comes amid uncertainty over Dhoni’s role for the 2026 IPL season.
- Who
- MS Dhoni, former CSK cricketer Badrinath, and Chennai Super Kings.
- What
- Badrinath revealed that Dhoni does not want to play as an Impact Player and prefers to be a full-time wicketkeeper.
- Where
- The comments were made by Badrinath on his YouTube channel.
- When
- In the context of the 2026 Indian Premier League season.
- Why
- Dhoni reportedly wants to remain on the field for all 20 overs, while Badrinath believes an Impact Player role could better manage his physical workload and benefit CSK tactically.
Dhoni’s stated preference
Badrinath’s tactical view
Playing role
Dhoni’s stated preference
Dhoni reportedly told Badrinath that he would not play as an Impact Player and sees himself as a full-time wicketkeeper.
Badrinath’s tactical view
Badrinath said using Dhoni as an Impact Player could tactically benefit Chennai Super Kings.
Physical workload
Dhoni’s stated preference
Dhoni’s preferred role involves staying on the field for the full 20 overs as wicketkeeper.
Badrinath’s tactical view
Badrinath said Dhoni’s body cannot withstand long durations and noted that Fleming has also discussed this issue.
Key facts
- Player discussed
- MS Dhoni
- Team
- Chennai Super Kings (CSK)
- Season
- 2026 Indian Premier League season
- Reported preference
- Dhoni does not want to play as an Impact Player.
- Preferred role
- Full-time wicketkeeper on the field for all 20 overs.
- Batting expectation
- Badrinath said Dhoni is only expected to bat after the 16th over.
- Source
- Former CSK player Badrinath, speaking on his YouTube channel.
Quotes
S Badrinath
Former Chennai Super Kings cricketer speaking on his YouTube channel
“He has personally told me that he won’t play as an Impact Player. He sees himself as a full-time keeper, and that means he has to be on the field for the full 20 overs.”
indianexpress.com
Sources
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