Goa, May 23 -- For nearly two decades, Chennai Super Kings and MS Dhoni have been inseparable. From building one of the most successful franchises in IPL history to lifting five titles, Dhoni has remained the heartbeat of CSK. But after missing the entire IPL 2026 season due to injuries, a new discussion has started dominating cricket circles - could Dhoni now take over as Chennai Super Kings' next head coach?

At 44, Dhoni is approaching the final phase of his cricketing journey. Questions about retirement have surrounded him ever since he stepped away from international cricket in 2020, but this season felt different. For the first time in IPL history, Dhoni did not play a single match.

A calf injury before the start of the tournament ...