As the 2026 Indian Premier League (IPL) season approaches, the debate surrounding MS Dhoni’s role at Chennai Super Kings (CSK) has taken a dramatic turn. Former India and CSK batter Subramaniam Badrinath has claimed it is "literally impossible" for the franchise management to drop the legendary wicketkeeper-batter from the starting XI.

Despite being 44, Dhoni’s participation in the upcoming campaign has been confirmed by CSK CEO Kasi Viswanath, who stated the veteran is available for the duration of the tournament. However, uncertainty remains over whether Dhoni will reclaim his spot behind the stumps or be utilised primarily as an Impact Player.

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In the 2025 season, Dhoni experienced a rather ‘silent’ IPL campaign, primarily appearing in a cameo-heavy capacity to accumulate 196 runs across 14 fixtures. Although his average of 24.50 and strike rate of 135.17 provided value during the death overs, the quiet nature of his season has only amplified persistent questions regarding his physical mobility and long-term future in the squad.

Nevertheless, Badrinath believes Dhoni’s stature within the "Yellow Army" transcends standard cricketing logic. Speaking on his YouTube channel, he suggested that even head coach Stephen Fleming lacks the authority to bench the man affectionately known as 'Thala'. Badrinath argued that the reverence Dhoni commands makes any conversation regarding his exclusion an impossibility for the coaching staff.

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Addressing the power dynamic within the dressing room, Badrinath said:

"I am unsure if the CSK CEO’s statement about Dhoni being available for every game was an entirely administrative one. While he claimed he would defer to cricketing logic, the reality is far more complex. How will he go and tell Dhoni that you are dropped? I honestly don't think Stephen Fleming has the capacity to do that. It feels completely impossible. In my view, no member of the support staff anywhere—not even someone as respected as Fleming—could ever tell Dhoni he is being relegated to an 'Impact Player' role or left out of the side entirely. It simply won't happen; we can safely assume he will feature in every single match."

Ultimately, while the debate over Dhoni's tactical role persists, Badrinath’s insights suggest that his legendary status makes him a permanent fixture in the side. For Chennai Super Kings, it appears the 2026 season will once again revolve around the presence of ‘Thala,’ regardless of the logistical challenges it poses for the coaching staff. (With inputs from Agencies)