Dhoni will play the 19th edition of IPL at the age of 44.
In a surprise turnaround, former India cricketer Yograj Singh has strongly backed MS Dhoni to continue playing in the Indian Premier League (IPL), praising his fitness and longevity.
Ahead of IPL 2026, Yograj hit back at critics calling for Dhoni's retirement, declaring the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) can still play for another 10 years.
This shift comes after years of hostility, where Yograj previously accused Dhoni of destroying his son Yuvraj Singh's cricketing career.
“Absolutely. I admire him. He's still playing. He should keep on playing for another 10 years. Because he has proved his fitness. Guy's discipline, guy's dedication. Devoted,” Yograj said in an exclusive chat with InsideSport.
“Who the hell are people going to tell him to retire? No,” he added, questioning the growing calls around Dhoni’s future.
Yograj dismissed the age debate in Indian cricket as "funny" and misplaced, emphasizing that performance, not age, should dictate selection.t
Citing the example of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, he argued that as long as players perform, they shouldn't face scrutiny regarding their age.
“When you're performing, no one will drop you. So this age factor which you asked is very funny in this country, right?” Yograj said.
“Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli… young cricketers and they want to quit. They should indeed make the world realise that ‘you are the best’,” he remarked.
Yograj chose to separate personal opinions from cricketing merit as he described Dhoni as a "great player, great captain."
“A great player, a great captain is different from being a great man… but as far as cricket is concerned… hats off to him,” he said.
Since CSK's title win in 2023, MS Dhoni has defied retirement speculation and knee issues to continue his IPL journey. Last year, the 44-year-old played all 14 league matches and also returned to the leadership role after regular skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad was ruled out midway through the tournament due to injury.
However, Dhoni failed to turn CSK’s fortunes around as the five-time champions became the first team to be knocked out of the playoffs race and finished last in the points table for the first time ever.
Despite age, Dhoni continues to be the central figure of fan enthusiasm for CSK, with his presence ensuring packed stadiums and immense media attention.