MS Dhoni breaks silence on IPL 2027 participation, says decision to be made before December

Former India captain MS Dhoni has broken his silence on his participation in IPL 2027. Dhoni, who missed the entire IPL 2026 season due to injury, has offered an update on his plans for the upcoming season.

The 45-year-old said he would decide on his participation before December after assessing his fitness. The Chennai Super Kings (CSK) veteran made the remarks during a healthcare event in Bengaluru on October 24, leaving his return for the next season uncertain.

Dhoni said he would undergo medical tests before deciding whether he could play another season of the Indian Premier League.

"Doc, I will have to go through the test. You will have to give me the report, and then before December, I will have to see, you know, how strong I am to maybe play one more season," Dhoni was quoted as saying by ANI.

Dhoni also made a light-hearted remark about his fitness, comparing himself to a vintage vehicle. He said doctors would have to ensure that he was fit enough to continue playing if he wanted to return for another IPL season.

"And if I am not, then, you know, you will have to make sure that you do everything right with me and make sure that this old vintage vehicle is running well on the road. So all the pressure is on them," he added.

Dhoni's comments suggest that a decision on his IPL future will depend on his fitness assessment and his ability to handle another season. The former CSK captain has not confirmed whether he will return to the tournament in 2027.

Retirement speculation has surrounded Dhoni for several seasons, but he has continued to feature for Chennai Super Kings. His absence throughout IPL 2026 marked the first time since the league's inception that he did not play a single match in a season.

CSK CEO Kasi Viswanathan had also expressed optimism about Dhoni continuing with the franchise for another season. However, he said the final decision rested with the veteran cricketer.

"It's a question you need to ask him. I also have to ask him. He informs us of his decision when he arrives in Chennai. I have a feeling that the chances of him continuing to play for CSK are there. He is still a player, you know," Viswanathan had said.

CSK make changes ahead of IPL 2027

Meanwhile, Chennai Super Kings have made a major change to their coaching setup, parting ways with head coach Stephen Fleming and appointing Zaheer Khan to the role.

Dhoni's potential return will remain a key talking point for CSK supporters as the franchise prepares for the next season. However, his latest comments make it clear that he will assess his fitness before taking a final call.