At 44, MS Dhoni is set to take the field for Chennai Super Kings in IPL 2026, marking his 19th season in the tournament. Seven years after his last international appearance, the iconic wicketkeeper-batter continues to spark retirement speculation. When asked about the chatter surrounding Dhoni’s exit, former India captain Sourav Ganguly offered a straightforward perspective, cutting through the rumors.

Sourav Ganguly didn’t disclose any clues regarding Dhoni’s exit from IPL 2026, but the veteran hinted at a possible discussion in the near future.

“I will tell (MS) Dhoni what to do and not to the media,” Ganguly said at an event.

According to ex-India cricketer Aakash Chopra, IPL 2026, set to start on March 28, may be Dhoni’s last stint in the league, with Sanju Samson lined up as his potential successor.

Chopra suggested that Dhoni should consider hanging up his boots if his involvement this season for Chennai Super Kings is restricted to being an ‘Impact Player.’

“You can’t manage a cricket team from the dugout like in football. Dhoni’s greatest strength is his unmatched ability to read the game. That insight and decisiveness define him. I do think IPL 2026 could very well be his final season,” Chopra told JioHotstar.

“He already has a successor in place. Sanju Samson is likely to take over the gloves, possibly even during this season. Of course, this depends on Dhoni’s fitness and the condition of his knee. But he can’t continue as an Impact Player. If that’s the role he’s playing, I believe it may be the right time for him to retire,” he added.

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