IPL 2026: CSK should release MS Dhoni and target these three players ahead of auction

IPL 2026: MS Dhoni.(Photo Source – BCCI)

Legendary cricketer MS Dhoni has been the main figure of Chennai Super Kings since the inception of the Indian Premier League, leading the team to five titles. Even in the last season, when Ruturaj Gaikwad was sidelined due to injury, Dhoni once again took the responsibility. However, with constant knee issues and age no longer on his side, CSK could be heading toward a major transition ahead of the IPL 2026 auction.

If the franchise decides to release Dhoni, it won’t just be about letting go of a player; it will be about parting ways with the face of their legacy. Filling his shoes will be a huge task, as he has been central to CSK’s success. The management will need to look for new faces who can bring leadership and match awareness to continue the yellow army’s winning culture in the post-Dhoni era.

Here are 3 replacement options for MS Dhoni in CSK ahead of IPL 2026 auctions

3. Narayan Jagadeesan

Narayan Jagadeesan could be a strong contender to return to the Chennai Super Kings setup ahead of IPL 2026. Having already been part of the franchise earlier, Jagadeesan understands the culture of the Chennai-based franchise well. Over the past couple of domestic seasons, he has been in brilliant form, scoring heavily across formats.

In First-Class cricket, he has scored 3,760 runs at an average of 50.13, while in 50-over matches, he has 2,728 runs with nine centuries, including the best of 277. His performances have also recently earned him a spot in India’s Test setup. Jagadeesan’s ability to keep wickets and bat in the top or middle order makes him an asset in the line-up.

2. Quinton de Kock

If CSK decides to move on from MS Dhoni, Quinton de Kock could be seen as an option that could fit in this line-up. Across 115 IPL matches, he has scored 3,309 runs at an average of 30.63 and a strike rate of 134.02, including two centuries and 24 fifties. The southpaw has hit over 300 fours and 130 sixes in the league.

In T20s, the Proteas stumper-batter record stands at 11,422 runs in 410 matches at a strike rate of 137.78. Having previously won IPL titles with the Mumbai Indians, de Kock’s experience as both an opener and wicketkeeper could make him an ideal replacement.

1. Glenn Phillips

New Zealand’s Glenn Phillips is another wicketkeeper-batter who could fit perfectly into CSK’s batting order. In T20Is, he has 1,929 runs from 83 matches at a strike rate of 140.59, with two centuries and ten fifties. Across all T20s, Phillips has scored 6,810 runs in 270 games at an average of 31.82, with a strike rate of 140.29.

Despite limited IPL appearances, his T20 experience across leagues like MLC, CPL, and The Hundred makes him a valuable asset. Also a part-time off-spinner and a brilliant fielder, Phillips’ all-round abilities will be crucial.

Disclaimer: This latest news is based on the author’s understanding, analysis, and instinct. As you review this information, consider the points mentioned and form your own conclusions.