It’s a reasonable decision. Given the guidance that MS Dhoni offers and Ruturaj Gaikwad’s leadership, why not cultivate another Jadeja team? You want to go in that path,” Uthappa stated.
Known for supporting seasoned players, Chennai Super Kings (CSK) made a significant investment in young players during Tuesday, December 16’s IPL 2026 mini-auction. Prashant Veer, a 19-year-old big-hitter and left-arm spinner from Uttar Pradesh, was acquired by the five-time winners for INR 14.2 crore. Kartik Sharma, a 20-year-old batsman and wicketkeeper, was also acquired by the team for INR 14.2 crore, making them the two most costly uncapped Indian players in the auction’s history.
Ruturaj Gaikwad was sidelined halfway through the competition last season, therefore MS Dhoni captained CSK. The team recently exchanged Sanju Samson for Sam Curran and Ravindra Jadeja. Robin Uthappa, who played alongside MS Dhoni for both India and CSK, believes that the renowned wicketkeeper-batter would soon assume a mentoring position for the Men in Yellow.
“It seems like the writing is on the wall. It’s obvious that this will be MS Dhoni’s final season. There will be no more rumours or speculation regarding whether he will play next year. He will be well and truly done this year,” Uthappa said on Tuesday to JioHotstar.
“When you consider the investment in youth and the squads they have selected since last year, I believe all the indicators lead to it. They are committed to nurturing, identifying, and retaining talent within the organisation,” he continued.
Additionally, CSK signed 28-year-old middle-order batsman Sarfaraz Khan and 26-year-old leg-spinner Rahul Chahar.
We are all aware that MS Dhoni would be coaching the team when he is not playing: The Uthappa
Uthappa added that MS Dhoni will undoubtedly be seen as CSK’s guru when he decides to hang up his boots.
We are all aware that he will be coaching the team when he is not playing. He will likely function as a mentor and player this year, in my opinion. “They are bringing in players like these because he already sees things that way,” the former cricket player turned pundit stated.






