Ask MS Dhoni to step aside; Key decisions CSK should take before IPL 2026 to regain lost mojo

MS Dhoni and R Ashwin - (Source: AFP)

Chennai Super Kings registered their worst-ever IPL season in 2025 after the Ruturaj Gaikwad-led side finished last on the table, for the first time in history. The Men in Yellow played 14 games and won just four matches in the entire tournament.

It was a disastrous tournament, and the Men in Yellow are looking to bounce back in the upcoming season. Meanwhile, this article will shed light on how CSK can regain their lost mojo and key decisions that will help Chennai get back on track.

1. Release Indian talents struggling with aggressive intent

One of the major reasons why CSK lagged behind other teams in IPL 2025 was their defensive attitude. The Indian talents like Rahul Tripathi, Vijay Shankar, Deepak Hooda, and Ravindra Jadeja failed to get the tempo going, and the battle was half lost within the powerplay itself.

However, mid-season, CSK dealt with a few injuries and brought in more aggressive players, which is when they again hogged the limelight for playing intentful cricket. Thus, CSK need to release Rahul Tripathi, Vijay Shankar, and Deepak Hooda, who have been ultra-defensive.

 Let's look at the strike rate of every CSK batter.

2. Get done with MS Dhoni

For entertainment purposes, having MS Dhoni is a dream for every cricket lover, and they wish to see thala playing the sport for the next 5-10 years. However, from a sports point of view, having Dhoni in the side has become more of a burden than a luxury.

MS indeed draws the brand, crowd for CSK, but he is not the same player he used to be a few years ago. Last year, Dhoni even came to bat at No.9, disturbing the entire balance of the team.

Thus, it is high time that CSK realises that it is time for Dhoni to retire and bring in a solid lower-middle order batter, who can also keep wickets, because at present, it feels like CSK are playing with 10 members.

3. Bring an Indian specialist spinner

Ravichandran Ashwin has retired from the game, and Chennai Super Kings need to bring an Indian spin-specialist to assist Noor Ahmad for IPL 2026. The Men in Yellow struggled to use their home advantage in their favour as Ashwin struggled to pick wickets.

Now with Ashwin gone, CSK have a great purse value, and they can utilise it to bring another great Indian spin talent.

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