Badrinath: Dhoni won't play IPL 2027 as Impact Player

MS Dhoni has indicated he will not play as an "Impact Player" in the upcoming 2027 Indian Premier League season, according to former Chennai Super Kings teammate Subramaniam Badrinath. Dhoni, who missed the entire IPL 2026 season due to injury, has reportedly told Badrinath that if he returns for IPL 2027, he sees himself as a full-time wicketkeeper, requiring him to be on the field for all 20 overs. Badrinath shared these insights on his YouTube channel, explaining that Dhoni's preference is to continue his role behind the stumps for the entire duration of a match, rather than taking on a limited role as an Impact Player. The Impact Player rule, introduced to offer tactical flexibility, allows teams to substitute players during a game, potentially reducing the physical demands on older or returning players. However, Badrinath expressed his belief that the Impact Player role could tactically benefit CSK, given Dhoni's age and history of fitness concerns. He noted that Dhoni's batting contributions have recently been limited to the closing overs, typically after the 16th over, while he also keeps wickets.