Chennai Super Kings (CSK) have dismissed reports claiming that former captain and current player MS Dhoni demanded a significant stake in the franchise. CSK CEO Kasi Viswanathan described the reports as “completely baseless”, putting to rest speculation about a potential ownership dispute involving the legendary cricketer.
Recent reports had suggested that Dhoni was looking to acquire a stake in CSK to strengthen his long-standing association with the five-time IPL champions. However, the claims indicated that negotiations failed after the franchise owners were reportedly unwilling to meet his demands.
According to the reports, Dhoni initially sought a 25% stake, while the CSK owners were said to have offered only 3%. His reported demand later dropped to 20% and then 18%, with the management allegedly increasing its offers to 4% and 5.5%. However, Viswanathan has firmly rejected the entire speculation. “The rumours are completely baseless,” the CSK CEO told PTI.
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Meanwhile, uncertainty continues over Dhoni’s playing future. The 45-year-old was retained by CSK for ₹4 crore ahead of the IPL 2025 mega auction under the BCCI’s revived uncapped-player rule. The regulation allowed players who had retired from international cricket for at least five years to be classified as uncapped.
MS Dhoni seeking stakes at CSK ‘completely baseless’
CSK CEO Kasi Viswanathan has put rumours about MS Dhoni seeking stakes in the franchise to rest.
Unverified reports claiming MS Dhoni wanting a stake at CSK had led to speculations of possible rift between the player and the…
— Moneycontrol (@moneycontrolcom) August 31, 2026
Dhoni subsequently missed the entire IPL 2026 season due to injury, further raising questions about whether he will return for IPL 2027. Kasi Viswanathan, however, revealed that Dhoni has not ruled out playing next season. “Dhoni hasn’t yet said he won’t play. So let’s wait,” he said.
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CSK are also entering an important phase after Stephen Fleming’s departure left the franchise without a head coach. With Dhoni’s decision still awaited, the coming months could prove crucial in determining the franchise’s leadership and playing combination for IPL 2027.
