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CSK Confirms MS Dhoni to Continue as Player, Not Mentor, After Zaheer Khan's Appointment
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News18•21-09-2026, 20:50
CSK Confirms MS Dhoni to Continue as Player, Not Mentor, After Zaheer Khan's Appointment
- •Chennai Super Kings (CSK) managing director Kasi Viswanathan confirmed MS Dhoni will remain a player, dispelling rumors of a coaching or mentorship role.
- •Dhoni was previously considered a potential replacement for former head coach Stephen Fleming, who departed months ago.
- •Former India pacer Zaheer Khan has been appointed as CSK's new head coach.
- •Despite not taking an official coaching role, Dhoni is expected to remain highly influential in team decisions, having reportedly approved Zaheer's appointment.
- •Zaheer Khan faces the challenge of balancing Dhoni's continued presence and impact with the team's on-field performance, given Dhoni's age and recent injury issues.
Key Questions Answered
No, Chennai Super Kings managing director Kasi Viswanathan confirmed that MS Dhoni will not take on a coaching or mentorship role, but will instead continue to be available as a player.
Former India fast bowler Zaheer Khan has been appointed as the new head coach of Chennai Super Kings, replacing Stephen Fleming who stepped down earlier in the year.
MS Dhoni missed the entirety of the IPL 2026 season due to persistent fitness issues, specifically suffering a pre-season calf strain followed by a thumb injury later in the campaign.
