MS Dhoni’s IPL 2026 Salary Revealed: Here’s How Much the CSK Legend Will Earn in His Final Season
Chennai Super Kings captain MS Dhoni is set to play one final IPL season in 2026. Here’s how much “Thala” will earn as part of his retention contract and a look back at his incredible journey with CSK.
MS Dhoni will play one final IPL season in 2026, earning ₹4 crore with Chennai Super Kings as part of his retention contract.
It’s official — MS Dhoni will return for one last Indian Premier League (IPL) season in 2026, ending months of speculation about his retirement. The confirmation came from CSK CEO Kasi Viswanathan, who stated that the legendary skipper will lead Chennai one final time as he looks to add another title to his iconic career.
💰 MS Dhoni’s IPL 2026 Salary
Ahead of the IPL 2025 mega auction, Dhoni made a strategic decision — to stay with Chennai Super Kings as an uncapped player, ensuring roster flexibility for the team.
As the IPL players have a three-year contract when retained, Dhoni will still get ₹4 crore for the 2026 season—just as he got last year.
Besides, the CSK captain, who was once the highest-paid player in the IPL with salaries below ₹12 crore in his prime, has willingly taken massive pay cuts in the past years. His small contract is a testimony to his team-first mentality and loyalty to the franchise that he has been leading since 2008.
🏆 CSK’s Golden Era Under Dhoni
Dhoni’s association with Chennai Super Kings began in the inaugural IPL season when the team bought him for ₹6 crore — then the league’s most expensive player. Under his leadership, CSK became a powerhouse, reaching multiple finals and winning five IPL titles (2010, 2011, 2018, 2021, 2023).
Known for his calm demeanor and sharp captaincy, Dhoni has guided CSK to ten IPL finals, creating one of the most successful dynasties in cricket history.
Last season, when Ruturaj Gaikwad was sidelined due to injury, Dhoni stepped up once again, leading the side in the second half of IPL 2025 and keeping CSK in playoff contention.
🟡 The Final Chapter for “Thala”
As fans prepare to witness MS Dhoni’s potential final bow in IPL 2026, emotions are high. The veteran’s return symbolizes the end of an era — and one last chance for Chennai’s beloved “Thala” to lift the trophy once more.
