Former Australian wicketkeeper and cricket star Adam Gilchrist has sparked debate on social media stating that MS Dhoni should not continue to play for the Chennai Super Kings in the next IPL season.

Gilchrist provided a player-by-player breakdown of CSK's likely retention strategy following a dismal 2025 campaign. The big moment came when he discussed the future of MS Dhoni, the franchise's face for over 15 years.

His remarks mirror a growing debate among fans and commentators over whether it is time for the club to move past the Dhoni era and focus on its next generation of stars. This bold statement comes as CSK is at the bottom of the IPL points table after nine games, a far cry from their customary standards of greatness.

Gilchrist's telling statement about MS Dhoni came when he was sharing his views on CSK's plans for next year's IPL 2026 auction.

“MS, well, he'll know what he wants to do. But I'm saying for the future — it's going to cost me this, I know — but perhaps he doesn't need to be there next year. I love you, MS. You are a champion, an icon,” Gilchrist said on Cricbuzz.

Gilchrist complimented Ayush Mhatre, endorsed Shivam Dube, Dewald Brevis, and Ravindra Jadeja, and advocated Ruturaj Gaikwad as a marquee retention. However, what struck a chord the most was his honest and loving statement about Dhoni.