Dhoni Set to Don Gloves Full-Time Again, CSK Coach Hussey Confirms
Chennai Super Kings have set tongues wagging ahead of IPL 2026 with a major revelation from batting coach Michael Hussey, who confirmed that MS Dhoni is expected to return as the franchise's primary wicketkeeper. This would mark a departure from his recent stints as an Impact Player substitute, signaling a full-circle moment for the veteran campaigner as he continues his recovery from a calf injury that hampered him in the previous season.
Hussey was careful to stress that the franchise is not rushing its most decorated player. The management's stance remains one of patience, allowing the 44-year-old icon to dictate his own timeline rather than forcing him back into competitive action before he is physically ready. "It'll be difficult, but he's Mahi," Hussey remarked, acknowledging the demanding nature of wicketkeeping duties that require constant squatting, sharp reflexes, and sustained concentration through a match.
What This Means for Sanju Samson
The development carries significant implications for Sanju Samson, who had stepped up to fill the wicketkeeping void during Dhoni's fitness struggles. With the CSK legend poised to reclaim the gloves, Samson's role within the XI could see a notable shift, potentially freeing him up purely as a specialist batter or altering his position in the batting order altogether. CSK's team management will need to carefully recalibrate their combination to accommodate both players effectively without disrupting the balance that has defined the side for years.
Encouragingly for the Yellow Brigade faithful, reports from the nets suggest Dhoni is timing the ball beautifully, a promising sign of his batting form ahead of the new season. However, the sterner examinations will come from running twinkle-toed between the wickets and absorbing the physical and mental pressures of live match situations. Despite these hurdles, CSK's coaching staff and fanbase alike remain steadfast in their belief that Thala will rise to the occasion once again, setting the stage for what promises to be one of the most closely watched storylines heading into IPL 2026.