Former India player Anil Kumble has said that MS Dhoni might not keep wickets for the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in IPL 2026. While stating that Sanju Samson will likely perform the wicketkeeping duties, he further added that Dhoni might play as an impact player. However, CSK traded in Samson from the Rajasthan Royals (RR) ahead of the IPL 2026 auction as they traded Ravindra Jadeja and Sam Curran to RR in return.

During a discussion on Star Sports, Kumble said, “That’s a massive shift. Obviously, CSK were looking at someone to come in as a replacement for MS Dhoni in the long run because MS can’t continue forever. So you needed a strong wicketkeeper, a strong presence on the field, and a batter, and Sanju brings both that. He has the leadership ability as well. It’s a good move for CSK, bringing in someone like Sanju Samson. The way I see MS’ role in this season, I don’t think he will be keeping wickets. I feel Sanju may be keeping wickets, and then MS playing the impact player role.”

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Meanwhile, former India selector Saba Karim added that MS Dhoni would continue to play as a wicketkeeper-batter in IPL 2026 as well.

“I feel MS will again continue to play as an all-rounder, as a keeper and batter, because I think he adds more value, not only to the side but also to himself as his own personality. He feels he is far more involved when he is also keeping wickets. He is able to understand the game better. He is able to offer advice in a much better manner. He is far more proactive. He is able to foresee the future, and I think that’s one of the biggest roles of a wicketkeeper these days. The idea to anticipate what may happen in the next delivery or the next over, that’s the kind of cue that Dhoni offers to the bowlers. All that can happen when he can marshal the resources from behind the stumps,” Saba Karim concluded.