CSK to venture into Women's Cricket [Source: @CricCrazyJohns, @wplt20/X.com]CSK have confirmed their growing interest in women’s cricket through a statement from CSK CEO Kasi Viswanathan during a public interaction at the Tamil Nadu Global Tourism Summit 2026. He made it clear that the franchise wants to expand beyond men’s cricket in a planned manner, and Women’s cricket will be the first step. This has sparked strong speculation about CSK entering the WPL in the coming years. CSK eye women’s cricket as next big stepSpeaking during a chat with RevSportz’s Boria Majumdar, Kasi Viswanathan said CSK’s immediate focus will remain cricket. He added that women’s cricket is the first area where the franchise wants to invest. While he did not give a timeline, his words strongly hinted at a future WPL entry. "And the very next step for us will be to invest in women’s cricket. You can be sure of it”, Kasi said.CSK have built one of the strongest brands in Indian sport. Entering women’s cricket would be a natural extension of that vision. At present, several IPL franchises already have teams in the WPL. Mumbai Indians, RCB and Delhi Capitals are active participants. UP Warriorz and Gujarat Giants also represent the league. These teams have helped grow women’s cricket rapidly in India. CSK joining this list would be a big blessing for the WPL. Their fan base and strong management could add more value to the league. However, Viswanathan stressed that CSK will not rush decisions. The franchise prefers a phased and sustainable approach. WPL context and why CSK’s entry mattersThe WPL has expanded rapidly since its inception in 2023. The matches have witnessed a huge turnout of viewers as well as a packed stadium.Teams such as MI, RCB, and DC have spent considerable resources on their teams. Their involvement has also helped develop young Indian players. CSK entering women’s cricket could balance the competition further. It would also bring the famous yellow fan culture into the women’s game. Much like the men’s team, a CSK women’s side could focus on backing players long-term. With the BCCI continuing to support women’s cricket, more franchises may follow CSK’s path. The timing feels right, interest is growing, and the audience is ready.MS Dhoni to play for CSK in IPL 2026Apart from WPL, much of the discussion also revolved around MS Dhoni and his bond with CSK. Viswanathan confirmed that Dhoni will play this season and remain associated with CSK forever. He repeated that on-field decisions are left entirely to players and the captain. Management does not interfere during matches. Beyond cricket, CSK are already supporting other sports at the grassroots level in Tamil Nadu. Chess, wrestling and other disciplines are part of this vision. Viswanathan said CSK want to help build a wider sports ecosystem over time. For now, women’s cricket is the clear next step.
