Dhoni Backs a Stronger CSK Batting Line-up for IPL 2026
Dhoni Backs a Stronger CSK Batting Line-up for IPL 2026
MS Dhoni does not spend much time looking in the rear-view mirror, but even he admits Chennai Super Kings were “well below par” during their tenth-place finish in IPL 2025. With just four wins in 14 matches and an injury-hit top order, CSK posted fewer than 160 in half of their games and never found a settled batting rhythm.
The former India captain, who reclaimed the CSK armband mid-season, now believes the return of opener Ruturaj Gaikwad plus a targeted mini-auction will fix the problem before the 2026 campaign.
Why Gaikwad Changes Everything in IPL 2025
Gaikwad started IPL 2025 brightly but damaged his elbow after only five matches and missed the rest of the tournament. Dhoni is convinced the 28-year-old’s comeback will stabilise the power-play and free up the middle order.
Gaikwad factor | 2025 reality | 2026 expectation |
|---|---|---|
Availability | 5 matches, ruled out injured | Full season fitness (cleared for Duleep Trophy) |
Captaincy load on Dhoni | Took charge after Match 6 | Gaikwad resumes as batting spearhead; Dhoni can focus on finishing |
Power-play strike rate | CSK < 7.5 rpo after his exit | Target ≥ 8.5 rpo with Gaikwad-Conway start |
Gaikwad is set to warm-up in the Duleep Trophy later this month, a positive sign for CSK’s pre-season programme.
Lessons for CSK from a Forgettable IPL 2025
Dhoni said the coaching group has already pinpointed “exactly what went wrong” and plans to act in the December mini-auction.
2025 Snapshot | Figure |
|---|---|
Matches | 14 |
Wins | 4 |
Losses | 10 |
League position | 10th (last) |
Centuries scored | 0 |
150+ opening stands | 0 |
The lack of big partnerships forced Dhoni and the lower order to rebuild far too often. “We were slightly worried about our batting order,” he admitted, “but I think it is sorted now that Rutu will be back.”
Auction To-Do List
Left-hand middle-order batter
– CSK’s run rate against wrist-spin fell sharply; a left-hander at No. 4 can break the match-ups.Power-hitting finisher
– Takes pressure off Dhoni, allowing him to manage his workload and close games selectively.Backup opener
– Insurance in case Gaikwad or Devon Conway miss matches.All-round depth
– A pace-bowling all-rounder would balance the XI when conditions demand an extra seamer.
Dhoni’s Message: Process First, Result Follows
Despite two lean years, Dhoni remains optimistic. He often speaks of CSK’s “process”, but is quick to add that results still matter: “We do talk about the processes, but at the same time we do want the result to come to our side. Last year it wasn’t there. Looking ahead, we will try to sort out most things and be at our best.”
His belief rests on three pillars:
Continuity – retaining the core that won five IPL titles.
Clear roles – Gaikwad and Conway to attack the new ball; Shivam Dube or a new signing to target the middle overs; Dhoni and Ravindra Jadeja to finish.
Culture – a dressing-room environment that absorbs a bad season without panic.
An IPL 2026 Blueprint for CSK
If Gaikwad returns at peak fitness and the auction yields two reliable middle-order options, CSK can re-create their familiar template: quick starts, controlled middle overs, and Dhoni closing with calculated bursts. Add their traditional home advantage at Chepauk, and the five-time champions suddenly look far more formidable than the wooden-spoon side of 2025.
Dhoni’s final word summed up the mood in Chennai: “Yes, the last couple of years have not been good for us. But what is important is that we have learnt. With the holes plugged, we’ll hopefully be at our best again.” For CSK fans, that faith—and the sight of Ruturaj Gaikwad walking out in yellow next April—might be all the reassurance they need.