CSK issue statement on Dhoni's IPL future [Source: AFP]One of CSK's top officials issued a statement about MS Dhoni's future in IPL 2027 after Chennai Super Kings suffered a crushing defeat to Sunrisers Hyderabad at the MA Chidambaram Stadium. Legendary Indian cricketer MS Dhoni missed yet another match as Chennai Super Kings went down to a formidable SRH side in their final home game of IPL 2026. As revealed by the Super Kings' captain Ruturaj Gaikwad at the toss, Dhoni wasn't fully fit to take the field against SRH, although he travelled to the venue and practised with his teammates prior to the game. MS Dhoni's IPL comeback postponed to 2027 season?Former India and Chennai Super Kings captain MS Dhoni has missed thirteen consecutive matches in the IPL 2026. Dhoni sustained a calf injury during a pre-season camp and was initially tipped to miss at least six matches for the franchise.However, it took him a significantly longer period to recover from the injury. According to the latest reports, the 44-year-old is also nursing a thumb injury, with his IPL 2026 participation hanging by a thread.In such a scenario, the frustration of his loyal fans is steadily brewing, as the waiting game continues for them to see their beloved Thala taking the field again.Also Read: MS Dhoni Gets Emotional, Hugs Suresh Raina As He Walks Around Chepauk For Last Time In IPL 2026While Dhoni's fitness status currently prevents him from playing, there's a definite chance of his comeback in the IPL 2027, with the legend yet to announce his retirement from the IPL.Meanwhile, CSK head coach Stephen Fleming has issued a statement on MS Dhoni's IPL 2027 ambitions, leaving the decision to the Super Kings' management.Will MS Dhoni play IPL 2027? CSK head coach Stephen Fleming answersNew Zealand legend Stephen Fleming has been associated with MS Dhoni since taking over the coaching duties in 2009. After the Super Kings' most recent IPL 2026 defeat to SRH, Fleming addressed the media, revealing key details on MS Dhoni's IPL future. Speaking at the post-match press conference, the CSK head coach said that the decision whether Dhoni would play the next season would be taken by the management in due course. However, Fleming believes that despite not playing a single game, Dhoni has been a significant member of the team, inspiring the young players in the squad. "It's a choice for the management. I know there has been a lot of talk about it. MS (Dhoni) has been around a lot this year, which is very important for the team, for young players in continuity, so he's been a big part. He hasn't played, but he's still had a big influence on the team," Stephen Fleming said. "There's a lot of good things we've done. We've introduced some new players that will hopefully be generation players for CSK. But I know we are judged on results, that's fair. So yeah, that's a management call, not mine," he added. Sanju Samson emerges as Dhoni's successor in IPLMeanwhile, Sanju Samson has emerged as Dhoni's successor in the Super Kings' IPL setup. The swashbuckling batter has been the most consistent performer for his side, amassing 477 runs at a magnificent average of 47.70. His calm demeanour and astute decision-making present Samson as a strong leadership candidate, as he is all set to succeed Dhoni in the five-time champions' IPL squad. Also Read: RR Vs LSG Head To Head Records- IPL 2026, Match 64
