MS Dhoni has made it clear that he wants to play as a full-time wicketkeeper for the Chennai Super Kings in the Indian Premier League (IPL), former CSK batter Subramaniam Badrinath said.
Speaking on his YouTube channel, Badrinath said Dhoni has ruled out the idea of playing as an Impact Sub and wants to keep the wickets for full 20 overs.
“He has personally told me that he won’t play as an Impact Player. He sees himself as a full-time keeper, and that means he has to be on the field for the full 20 overs. So, he won’t play as an Impact Player,” Badrinath said.
However, the 46-year-old felt that Dhoni playing as an Impact Sub would tactically benefit CSK and suit the legendary India captain more owing to his age and limited involvement with the bat.
“His body cannot withstand long durations, which even (Stephen) Fleming has said. He is only going to bat after the 16th over and keep wickets. When his participation is so less, he would be ideal as an Impact Player,” Badrinath said.
Dhoni, 45, has been struggling with his fitness in the last couple of seasons. He missed out the entirety of IPL 2026 due to knee issues.
His IPL future still remains a subject of speculation with no confirmation yet as to in which role Dhoni would feature in the next season.
The 45-year-old Dhoni has been grappling with fitness concerns in recent seasons and his future in the IPL remains a subject of speculation.
Published on Sep 03, 2026
