Dhoni will not play as an impact player, wants to remain full-time wicketkeeper

Former Chennai Super Kings captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni will not play as an impact player in IPL 2027. His former teammate Subramaniam Badrinath revealed that Dhoni considers himself a full-time wicketkeeper and wants to stay on the field for all 20 overs.

Despite being part of Chennai Super Kings in the 2026 IPL season, Dhoni did not play a single match. There has been no official statement yet regarding his return to the team in 2027.

Former batsman Subramaniam Badrinath said in a YouTube video that Dhoni told him he will not play as an impact player because he wants to keep wicket for the entire 20 overs. Badrinath also said that Dhoni’s body might find it difficult to handle this workload for a long time.

CSK’s former coach Stephen Fleming has also expressed concerns about Dhoni’s fitness. Dhoni has been struggling with fitness issues over the past few seasons.

According to Badrinath, when Dhoni’s participation on the field is limited, playing as an impact player is the right option. He said, "Dhoni will bat after the 16th over and also keep wickets."

Dhoni has led Chennai Super Kings to five IPL titles and captained in 235 matches. He is the only captain to have won 100 matches in the IPL. He has also effected 47 stumpings and taken 154 catches.

Dhoni stepped down from captaincy before the 2024 season, and since then his batting role has been limited. Badrinath said the impact player rule could reduce Dhoni’s workload and CSK could benefit from his experience and as a 'finisher'.