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Indian Premier League (IPL) thrives on the “Thala” factor, and as the 2026 season approaches, the narrative surrounding MS Dhoni has shifted from retirement rumours to a radical tactical evolution. Despite being 44, Dhoni’s recent return to the nets in Ranchi has sparked a frenzy. However, it is a revelation from his former teammate and spin wizard, Ravichandran Ashwin, that has truly set the cricketing world ablaze.
Ravichandran Ashwin reveals where MS Dhoni could bat for CSK in IPL 2026
Dhoni might be ditching his traditional finisher role to bat at No. 3. This isn’t just a sentimental move; it’s a calculated gamble. Historically, Dhoni has operated as the “ice-man” at the back end of an innings. But with the game’s meta-strategy shifting toward maximizing the batting Powerplay, Ashwin suggests that Dhoni is looking to become an “enforcer.” According to Ashwin, who recently hung up his boots after a final stint with CSK in 2025, Dhoni’s fitness and recent practice sessions indicate a desire to exploit the field restrictions early on, much like the longevity displayed by veteran Imran Tahir.
“Dhoni looks set to play as he has already started practising. He’s looking fit. Some said he may not play in the 11, or this might be his last season. But it looks like he got motivated seeing Imran Tahir. Looking at him, it doesn’t look like he’ll bat at No.9. He looks like he’ll come out to bat at No.3 in the Powerplay and be the enforcer, the way he has begun practice,” Ashwin stated on his YouTube channel.
For CSK, this move would solve a specific structural problem. In the 2025 season, the Yellow Army struggled, finishing at the bottom of the points table. Dhoni himself had a quiet year by his standards, managing 196 runs at a strike rate of 135.17. By moving up the order, Dhoni can set the tempo without the immediate pressure of an escalating required run rate, allowing the younger power-hitters to play around his veteran stability.
Ashwin appreciates new-look CSK as the batting powerhous
While the spotlight remains firmly on Dhoni, the Chennai Super Kings have quietly executed a “strong reset” during the off-season. The acquisition of Sanju Samson is a massive statement of intent, providing the middle order with a high-intent anchor. Ashwin points out that the sheer depth of this lineup makes them a nightmare for opposition captains.
The projected 2026 batting order is a blend of seasoned gold and explosive youth:
- The Foundation: Ruturaj Gaikwad and Sanju Samson.
- The X-Factors: Dewald Brevis and the hard-hitting Shivam Dube.
- The Future: Young sensations Ayush Mhatre and Prashant Veer.
Ashwin’s analysis highlights that with players like Jamie Overton providing lower-order muscle and Ayush Mhatre expected to carry his domestic form into the big stage, CSK is looking to make 200-plus scores a routine occurrence.
“Even 220 becomes really difficult for teams to stop CSK,” Ashwin added on his YouTube channel, emphasizing that the sheer volume of boundary-hitters in this squad is unprecedented.
