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In a week’s time, IPL 2026 shall get underway. This is the 19th edition of the competition and for CSK legend MS Dhoni, it’s a 19th season. Dhoni has played since the tournament started in 2008 and with the exception of 2016 and 2017, has played all seasons for CSK. CSK were suspended for those two seasons and he represented RPS in that period before returning to CSK in 2018.

Dhoni turns 45 this year and there’s speculation about this being his final season. But with Dhoni, one never knows as he could be back in 2027. However, Dhoni did have his chance of a dream exit when CSK won their fifth and latest title in 2023. It would have been the perfect farewell as Dhoni led his side to the crown. He was also at the helm when they won in 2010, 2011, 2018 and 2021. CSK have also lost in the final in 2008, 2012, 2013, 2015 and 2019. Dhoni has played 11 finals of which 10 have been with CSK.

IPL 2023 Could Have Been MS Dhoni’s Dream Exit?

In 2023, CSK defeated defending champions GT of the final ball to win a thriller. Everyone thought Dhoni would call time after that and not be back in 2024. Not only was he back for 2024 but he played in 2025 as well. Now, he’s all set to play in 2026.

He may have missed a trick because the grand exit might have been missed. Going out with a joint-record 5th title as skipper would have been the perfect farewell for ‘Thala’. But ‘Captain Cool’ chose to play on. This time he’s coming as a non-skipper. CSK finished last in 2025, so Dhoni may be looking to make amends.

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Of course, CSK may go on to win IPL 2026 and Dhoni could still bow out with another IPL title but 2023 was a sure thing and the legend missed out. Of course, we may see him back in 2027 for all you know. But it does not rule out the fact that 2023 was the perfect stage to end on a high note.

Dhoni also holds the records most runs without a 100, most appearances, most games led, most games won as skipper and most dismissals as a keeper. In other words, he is an IPL legend. He is also the first Indian skipper to lift the trophy. Will he win his sixth title as a player and draw level with Rohit Sharma in this edition? Let’s wait and watch!