NEW DELHI: Former India cricketer Irfan Pathan has stirred debate ahead of IPL 2026 by leaving MS Dhoni out of his preferred Chennai Super Kings (CSK) playing XI. He feels Dhoni’s current role as a lower-order batter, who faces very few balls, doesn’t add enough value to the team unless he takes on more responsibility.Pathan explained that while Dhoni remains a legend, his limited time at the crease doesn’t always help the team. He suggested that a more active batter like Sarfaraz Khan should take that spot instead.
“Sarfaraz Khan has a place in this team at number six,” Pathan said on his YouTube channel. “But if MS Dhoni says he’ll play regularly… because at some time, even the world’s best batter has to retire. Will he play all games? Will he not? I have been saying this for a long time, him being out there for two overs are certainly pleasing for Dhoni’s fans, but CSK don’t benefit from it. “If Dhoni has to play, it has to be four overs, only then does it benefit the team. If he doesn’t play, then does he think ‘Let’s make a team where batters get the best chance?’ because it’s Dhoni’s team,” he added.Irfan Pathan’s Playing XI for CSK: Sanju Samson, Ayush Mhare, Ruturaj Gaikwad (C), Shivam Dube, Dewald Brevis, Sarfaraz Khan, Kartik Sharma, Prashant Veer, Akeal Hosein, Matt Henry, Noor Ahmad and Impact player: Khaleel Ahmed.Pathan picked a playing eleven that included new faces like Prashant Veer and Kartik Sharma, leaving out Dhoni for now. He also hinted that this decision could change depending on Dhoni’s role in the batting order.With CSK struggling in recent seasons, including finishing last in 2025, the franchise is looking to rebuild. The addition of players like Sanju Samson shows a shift towards the future, and IPL 2026 could be a crucial season in deciding the team’s direction and Dhoni’s role going forward.
