Former India off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has weighed in on the debate surrounding MS Dhoni’s role for Chennai Super Kings ahead of the 2026 season of the Indian Premier League, saying he is not in favour of the veteran being used as an Impact Player.
With discussions intensifying over whether Dhoni should start in the playing XI or be used as a substitute, Ashwin made his position clear. He said that if Dhoni is part of the squad, he must feature in the XI.
The debate has gathered pace in recent weeks as IPL 2026 approaches. Questions remain over whether Dhoni, who has gradually reduced his batting workload, should continue as a full-time player or shift to a limited role. Ashwin rejected the idea of using him as an Impact Sub.
“I do not agree that he has to stay on the impact list. If he is in the squad, he has to play. If he does not want to, he should not play the entire season, that is it. I am not in agreement with him being an impact player,” Ashwin said on his YouTube show Ash ki Baat.
Ashwin added that Dhoni’s presence in the squad should end the debate over his inclusion in the XI, pointing to the former India captain’s belief in his own ability.
“If you are making a CSK XI, and Dhoni is in the squad, the debate ends right there. He has to be in the XI. If he does not want to play, he would retire. He has 100 per cent belief that he can play. He is practising from the last three months. He is giving the message that he wants to play. If he wants to play, it is not possible to go tell him you cannot play,” he said.
While acknowledging that Dhoni may not be a top-six batter anymore, Ashwin highlighted the roles he can still perform, especially as a wicketkeeper and on-field guide for captain Ruturaj Gaikwad.
“He is not your number six batter, that I will agree. But he can play a double role. He can be the on-field compass for Ruturaj,” Ashwin said.
Ashwin also pointed to Dhoni’s importance in managing the bowling unit and controlling the game from behind the stumps, something he experienced during his time with the franchise.
“I think Dhoni will have a critical role in supporting this new bowling line-up on the field. Last year, he wanted to play the last three overs, but the top order did not always score, and he had to come in earlier. This time, they have added power in the top order to avoid that situation,” he said.
He added that a stronger top order could allow Dhoni to stick to a finisher’s role more consistently.
“Maybe this time, out of 14 matches, he will get to bat higher only in three or four games. Otherwise, he will come in at the end. His biggest role will be in keeping, setting the field, and giving a shoulder to Ruturaj. He can be the big brother in the team,” Ashwin said.
Ashwin said Dhoni’s preparation reflects his intent to contribute.
“We are seeing his videos. He has been practising for the last three months. That is the message he is giving. He believes he can contribute, otherwise he is not the kind of person who will continue,” he added.
Meanwhile, former India cricketer Aakash Chopra also questioned the idea of Dhoni being used as an Impact Player. He said that a player of Dhoni’s stature should either play a full role or consider stepping away from the game.
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