‘Time for the baton to pass’ – Irfan Pathan on MS Dhoni’s CSK future ahead of IPL 2026

Former India bowler-turned-commentator Irfan Pathan has acknowledged MS Dhoni’s work ethic during the Indian Premier League but also stated that the time is right for the legendary wicketkeeper to pass the baton to the younger generations. 

Pathan believes that the presence of Dhoni in the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) dressing room would still be a major boost for the rest of the squad as the five-time champions enter their transition year. The focus within the CSK camp has clearly shifted from experienced players to young players with bags of potential. 

Nowhere was this shift more evident than during the most recent mini auction when CSK paid INR 14.20 crore each to acquire the services of two uncapped youngsters in Prashant Veer and Kartik Sharma. Pathan, therefore, wants Dhoni to play a mentor role for these exciting players. 

“As soon as the IPL comes around, we start seeing Mahendra Singh Dhoni again, which means he is fully prepared for it, and he is looking very fit as well. We have seen him take responsibility for a number of years now, but I think this is the time for the baton to pass on to the likes of Ayush Mhatre, Dewald Brevis, Shivam Dube and Ruturaj Gaikwad, who is a young captain as well. CSK’s ideology has changed. It will be key for the youngsters to learn from MS Dhoni’s experience, and for him to take the players ahead alongside him,” Pathan was quoted as saying on JioStar. 

“It is a very exciting team on paper. In terms of six-hitting ability and intent, I am really looking forward to seeing the fearlessness from this young CSK side,” he added.

Dhoni, 44, still remains an important player for CSK ahead of the 2026 IPL season. The former skipper still is one of the best wicketkeepers in the tournament and is also a dangerous prospect coming down the order. 

The right-handed batter embarks on his 17th season in yellow. CSK, however, might have already started to prepare for life after their talisman with the trade of Sanju Samson from Rajasthan Royals in exchange for Sam Curran and Ravindra Jadeja.