MS Dhoni rejects Impact Player role for future IPL seasons

Mahendra Singh Dhoni has indicated that he does not intend to participate as an ‘Impact Player’ in the Indian Premier League, according to former Chennai Super Kings batter Subramaniam Badrinath. Dhoni reportedly expressed his preference to remain a full-time wicketkeeper if he continues playing, which would require him to be on the field for the full 20 overs.

Badrinath suggested that the Impact Player role could have been a tactical advantage for Chennai Super Kings (CSK), as it might have eased the physical workload on the 45-year-old veteran. Given Dhoni’s recent fitness concerns and his tendency to bat late in the innings, Badrinath noted that the rule could have allowed CSK to utilize his finishing abilities while managing his physical demands. However, Dhoni’s commitment to wicketkeeping adds further uncertainty regarding his potential participation in the 2027 IPL season.