IPL 2026: Irfan Pathan hints at MS Dhoni’s successor in CSK, names this star

Irfan Pathan said the addition of Sanju Samson to Chennai Super Kings signals that MS Dhoni could be heading into his final Indian Premier League season in 2026. Pathan said Samson’s inclusion provides a long-term wicketkeeper-batsman option around whom the team can rebuild, suggesting Dhoni may look to pass on leadership.

Key takeaways

Quick scan — what you need to know:

• Irfan Pathan said the addition of Sanju Samson to Chennai Super Kings signals that MS Dhoni could be heading into his final Indian Premier League season in 2026.
• Pathan said Samson’s inclusion provides a long-term wicketkeeper-batsman option around whom the team can rebuild, suggesting Dhoni may look to pass on leadership.

Background

What led here, in plain terms:

• s a long-term wicketkeeper-batsman option around whom the team can rebuild, suggesting Dhoni may look to pass on leadership. Irfan Pathan said the addition of Sanju Samson to Chennai Super Kings signals that MS Dhoni…
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Why it matters

Why readers and decision-makers should care:

• Irfan Pathan said the addition of Sanju Samson to Chennai Super Kings signals that MS Dhoni could be heading into his final Indian Premier League season in 2026.
• Pathan said Samson’s inclusion provides a long-term wicketkeeper-batsman option around whom the team can rebuild, suggesting Dhoni may look to pass on leadership.