New Delhi: Former Indian cricketer… Irfan Pathan Leaving has sparked debate ahead of IPL 2026. MS Dhoni Out of choice Chennai Super Kings (CSK) Playing XI. He feels that Dhoni’s current role as a lower-order batsman, who faces very few balls, does not have enough value for 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. Like a more active batsman, he suggested Sarfraz Khan It should be taken instead.
“Sarfraz Khan has the sixth position in this team,” Pathan said on his YouTube channel. “But if MS Dhoni says he will play regularly… because at some point, even the best batsman in the world has to retire. Will he play all the matches? Won’t he? I have been saying this for a long time, his being out there for two overs is certainly pleasing for Dhoni fans, but it will not benefit CSK. “If Dhoni has to play, he has to bowl four overs, that’s when it helps the team. If he doesn’t play, do they think, ‘Let’s build a team where the batsmen get the best chance?’ Because this is Dhoni’s team,” he added.Irfan Pathan’s Playing XI for CSK: Sanju Samson, Ayush Mahare, Rituraj Gaikwad (C), Shivam Dubey, Devald Brews, Sarfaraz Khan, Karthik Sharma, Prashant Vir, Akil Hussain, Matt Henry, Noor Ahmed and Impressive Players: Khalil Ahmed.Pathan opted for a playing XI that included new faces like Prashant Vir and Karthik Sharma, leaving Dhoni out for now. He also hinted that the decision could change depending on Dhoni’s role in the batting order.With CSK struggling in recent seasons, including a last-place finish 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 direction of the team and Dhoni’s role going forward.
