Stephen Fleming Addresses Dhoni’s Future With a Three-Word Statement

Chennai Super Kings head coach Stephen Fleming has broken his silence on MS Dhoni’s future in the Indian Premier League. He gave a three-word answer to one of the most burning questions this season.

Chennai Super Kings are out of the playoff contention this year. However, something everyone wants to know about is Dhoni’s future in the league. Whether he will play next year or exit the IPL and become part of the support staff.

Dhoni Had to Step in as Captain

Halfway through the 2025 IPL season, CSK skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad was ruled out due to a hairline fracture on his elbow. This resulted in Dhoni becoming Chennai’s interim captain.

However, the veteran cricketer could not change CSK’s fortune, and the team became the first to get out of playoff contention. Dhoni’s batting position also became a topic of the season, as on many occasions he even batted at No. 9.

Before CSK’s clash with Rajasthan Royals on May 20, the team’s head coach, Stephen Fleming, was asked about Dhoni’s future in the league. He replied, “I don’t know.”

‘A mixture of youth and experience’

In the middle of the 2025 season, CSK signed several replacement players. These include some young players, which indicates that Chennai might leave their experienced players ideology behind and focus on young talent.

However, Fleming believes that having experienced players benefits the team. He feels they know how to handle pressure and get the job done.

“They have certainly had an impact, which is positive from a season that has been a challenge. But we realised early on that we were off the pace. So to be able to introduce these players, they are definitely in line for the future as we regenerate the team and redevelop or reconfirm our philosophy of how we want to play,” Fleming said.

“My point has always been a mixture of youth and experience. I am a fan of experience, experience wins tournaments. But the youth and talent in this country is something you can’t ignore,” he added.

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