By Admin 
Before the start of IPL 2026, a big statement has come out regarding Chennai Super Kings. Former Indian all-rounder Irfan Pathan has chosen his favorite playing combination of CSK. The surprising thing in this was that he did not give place to Mahendra Singh Dhoni even in the team of 12 players. This suggestion has sparked a new debate among fans.
Irfan Pathan believes that now Dhoni’s role may be less important on the field and more important as a guide within the team. According to him, in the last few seasons, Dhoni has mostly been coming to bat in the last one or two overs. This definitely gives fans a chance to see his exciting style, but in terms of the team’s strategy, it cannot be considered a big contribution in every match.
Dhoni can be seen in the role of mentor
Pathan believes that 44 year old Dhoni should now focus on strengthening the CSK team. He says that CSK now has young and future leaders, who need to be groomed. In this context, he has also considered the names of players like Rituraj Gaikwad and Sanju Samson, who recently joined the team, important.
According to Irfan, if Dhoni plays in every match then it becomes difficult for some other players to make space. He specifically mentioned Sarfaraz Khan and said that he can leave a big impact at number 6. In such a situation, the team should take decisions keeping the future in mind.
Irfan Pathan’s chosen best team of CSK
In the best 12 players selected by Irfan Pathan for CSK, Sanju Samson and Ayush Mhatre have been kept as openers. Captain Ruturaj Gaikwad is at number three. After this, Shivam Dubey and Dewald Brevis have been given place in the middle order. Sarfaraz Khan has been placed at number-6, while Karthik Sharma and Prashant Veer have been included as all-round options. Akil Hussain, Noor Ahmed and Matt Henry have got place in bowling. Whereas Khalil Ahmed has been selected as an impact player.
Irfan Pathan’s team
Sanju Samson, Ayush Mhatre, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Shivam Dubey, Dewald Brewis, Sarfaraz Khan, Karthik Sharma, Prashant Veer, Akil Hussain, Noor Ahmed, Matt Henry, Khalil Ahmed (Impact Player).