Former Michael Clarke believes that MS Dhoni should continue playing competitive cricket despite ongoing discussions surrounding his age and fitness. The former Australia captain praised Dhoni’s unmatched impact on the game and even described him as the best wicketkeeper in T20 cricket today.
Dhoni has not featured for Chennai Super Kings in IPL 2026 after suffering a calf strain ahead of the tournament. Early reports suggested the injury would keep the 44-year-old out for only a few matches, but CSK have already completed 10 games this season without their iconic former captain taking the field.
Although Dhoni continues to train regularly in the nets, he has avoided travelling with the team on several matchdays. Still, Clarke feels Dhoni’s connection with CSK remains stronger than ever and believes the franchise is almost inseparable from the legendary wicketkeeper-batter.
WATCH – Prince Yadav Shares Heartwarming Moment With Virat Kohli After Dream Spell
“MS Dhoni is CSK,” Michael Clarke said while speaking on the Beyond23 Cricket Podcast. “If you watch a CSK game, everyone has the No.7 yellow jersey on. In terms of sponsors coming to the team, every sponsor would want MS Dhoni to be part of that team. He is that significant in India and CSK,” he added.
Clarke also dismissed the argument that Dhoni’s age should determine his future, insisting that no current player matches his wicketkeeping standards in T20 cricket.
“Age should not matter, though. No one can convince me that there is a better keeper than MS Dhoni. He’s still the best wicketkeeper in T20s,” Michael Clarke said.
The former Australian skipper also predicted that Dhoni would likely walk away completely from the sport after retirement, unlike many former cricketers who move into commentary, coaching, or mentorship roles.
ALSO READ: IPL Eyes 94 Matches From 2028 As BCCI Targets Larger Window In FTP Cycle
“When he retires, we probably won’t see him involved in cricket. He certainly won’t commentate. I doubt he will stay on as a mentor with CSK,” Michael Clarke explained. With Dhoni’s future still uncertain, Clarke urged fans and experts to appreciate the cricketing icon while he is still connected to the game.
