MS Dhoni has no rift with CSK, says franchise CEO: Kasi Viswanathan provides update on legendary cricketer's IPL future

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CSK CEO Kasi Viswanathan Statement On MS Dhoni IPL Future | No Rift

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Chennai Super Kings (CSK) CEO Kasi Viswanathan has rejected claims of a rift between the franchise and MS Dhoni. This comes after a report stated that Dhoni had sought a stake in the franchise, with his initial desire of 25% lowered to 20%.

Dhoni has been CSK’s face, a name synonymous with the franchise right from the outset in 2008. The legendary wicketkeeper-batter led the franchise to five IPL titles, the last of which came in 2023.

CSK CEO rejects ‘baseless claims’ of rift with MS Dhoni

Days ago, a report by Cricblogger had claimed that Dhoni wanted to purchase a stake in CSK. As per the report, Dhoni wanted 25% initially but lowered it to 20%. However, CSK, on their part, offered Dhoni a 5.5% stake and the negotiations between both parties broke down.

Speaking to PTI, Viswanathan dismissed all such reports

Speaking to PTI, Viswanathan dismissed all such reports. “The rumours are completely baseless,” he said.

Will MS Dhoni be in action in IPL 2027?

Dhoni was a notable absentee for CSK in IPL 2026. Ahead of the season, Dhoni, as per an official statement by the franchise, was ruled out of the first two weeks of action. However, Dhoni went on to miss the whole season.

There have been a lot of speculations on his future, with many left wondering if Dhoni has played in the IPL for the last time. Viswanathan, addressing the talk around Dhoni’s future, said, “Dhoni hasn’t yet said he won’t play. So let’s wait.”

We have not discussed anything with MS

“We have not discussed anything with MS as of now. MS takes his decisions on his own, and we respect that,” he added.

The CSK CEO also kept the option open of having Dhoni in a non-playing role. He had earlier hinted at the prospect of making the cricket legend a permanent part of the franchise. “We would always like to have him as a permanent fixture at CSK in whatever capacity — be it as a player, coach or mentor, whatever he would like. Any decision depends on him,” Viswanathan said.

CSK’s hunt for a new head coach

CSK would have a new head coach in IPL 2027 after the franchise parted ways with Stephen Fleming, bringing an end to a glorious 18-year-phase wherein the franchise won the title five times.

Brendon McCullum and Eoin Morgan are among the names who many feel could be contenders for the role.

Source: www.bhaskarenglish.in