Ashwin’s big statement, dismissed the questions being raised about Mahi’s place in CSK’s playing eleven.

News India Live, Digital Desk: Now only a few days are left for the thrill of IPL 2026 to begin and like every time, this time too Mahendra Singh Dhoni is at the centre. Will Dhoni play as an ‘impact player’? Will they be able to play all the matches? Amidst these questions, former Chennai Super Kings (CSK) player Ravichandran Ashwin has given a befitting reply to the critics. Ashwin clearly said that if Dhoni is in the squad, then there should be no debate on his being in the playing XI. Ashwin disagrees with the role of ‘impact player’. Ashwin said on his YouTube channel ‘Ash ki Baat’ that he is not in favor of seeing Dhoni only as a substitute or impact player. According to Ashwin, “I don’t agree that he should be in the impact list. If he is in the team, he should play. If he doesn’t want to play, then he should not play the entire season, that’s all.” Ashwin believes that Dhoni’s presence is equal to half the victory for the team. Dhoni is like a compass… Role of elder brother for Ruturaj Ashwin has described Dhoni’s role as more than batting. He said that Dhoni will act like a ‘compass’ (direction indicator) for captain Ruturaj Gaikwad on the field. Wicketkeeping and fielding: According to Ashwin, Dhoni’s biggest role will be to handle the bowling line-up from behind the wicket and set the field. Batting order: Ashwin predicted that Dhoni will bat at number 7 this time and will mainly play the role of finisher in the last 3-4 overs. He also said that this time CSK’s top order (which includes players like Sanju Samson) is very strong, due to which there will be less pressure on Dhoni to come early. Preparations gave a strong message: “I have to play.” Referring to Dhoni’s practice video, Ashwin said that Mahi has been working hard for the last three months. In Ashwin’s words, “Watching him practice gives a clear message – ‘I want to play, think whatever you want’. If he wasn’t confident about playing, he wouldn’t have worked so hard.” Ashwin made it clear that Dhoni is not the person who hangs with the team without contributing; If they are coming on the field, it means that they have 100% confidence in their abilities.