Ashwin Dismisses Impact Player Role for Dhoni in Blunt IPL Assessment

Ravichandran Ashwin has delivered an uncompromising verdict on MS Dhoni's role for Chennai Super Kings in the upcoming IPL 2026 season, categorically rejecting suggestions that the legendary wicketkeeper-batsman should be used as an Impact Player rather than a starter.

The former India spinner expressed his views emphatically during his 'Ash ki Baat' show, making clear his position on the ongoing debate surrounding Dhoni's optimal utilization for CSK. With discussions intensifying about whether the veteran should feature in the starting eleven or serve as a tactical substitute, Ashwin left no room for ambiguity in his assessment.

"I do not agree that he has to stay on the impact list," Ashwin stated firmly. "If he is in the squad, he has to play. If he does not want to, he should not play the entire season, that is it. I am not in agreement with him being an impact player."

Ashwin's reasoning centers on Dhoni's unwavering self-belief and preparation levels heading into the new season. The spinner emphasized that Dhoni's presence in the squad automatically resolves any selection dilemmas for the franchise.

"If you are making a CSK XI, and Dhoni is in the squad, the debate ends right there," Ashwin explained. "He has to be in the XI. If he does not want to play, he would retire. He has 100% belief that he can play. He is practicing from the last three months. He is giving the message that I want to play, you think whatever you want."

The former CSK teammate highlighted Dhoni's continued dedication to preparation, noting his three months of intensive training as evidence of his commitment to active participation. Ashwin believes this level of preparation demonstrates Dhoni's genuine desire to contribute as a regular starter rather than a late-innings specialist.

While acknowledging that Dhoni may not serve as the primary number six batsman, Ashwin emphasized the multi-dimensional value the veteran brings to the team. His analysis extends far beyond batting contributions to encompass leadership, tactical guidance, and mentoring responsibilities.

"I think Dhoni will have a critical role to support this new bowling line-up on the field," Ashwin observed. "His biggest role will be in keeping, setting the field, and giving a shoulder to Ruturaj."

The reference to new captain Ruturaj Gaikwad highlights Ashwin's belief that Dhoni's on-field presence serves as crucial support for the leadership transition. As Gaikwad assumes captaincy responsibilities, Dhoni's tactical acumen and game management experience become invaluable assets.

Ashwin addressed concerns about Dhoni's batting position, suggesting that strategic squad strengthening should minimize situations requiring him to bat higher up the order. He reflected on previous seasons where top-order failures forced Dhoni into earlier batting positions, compromising his preferred role as a finisher.

"MS wants that he plays the last three overs," Ashwin noted. "But the top order did not score many times and he had to go up. This time, they have added power in the top order to avoid this. Maybe this time, out of 14 games, he will get to bat higher only in 3-4 games, or else he will only come in the end."

The spinner's assessment reflects confidence in CSK's roster construction, suggesting that improved top-order depth will allow Dhoni to fulfill his optimal role as a death-overs specialist while maintaining his comprehensive influence through wicketkeeping and field placement.

As CSK prepares for another IPL campaign with evolving leadership dynamics, Ashwin's clear position adds weight to arguments favoring Dhoni's continued prominence in the starting lineup rather than relegation to substitute status.