IPL 2026: Heinrich Klaasen downplays MS Dhoni’s impact with blunt “5-10 balls” remark

Chennai Super Kings (CSK) are having a forgettable season in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026, and it's a team failure. Except for players like Sarfaraz Khan, Jamie Overton, and a few others, none of the players has performed. The Super Kings are currently at the bottom of the points table and are struggling hard to find that breakthrough. 

Meanwhile, MS Dhoni has not been a part of the playing XI due to an injury. He is likely to join the team from their next game against the Delhi Capitals (DC) on April 11. After the humiliating loss against Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in the previous game, CSK have a break of six days, before taking to the field once again. 

Heinrich Klaasen questions MS Dhoni’s influence in CSK setup

CSK are set to clash against SRH on April 18, and before the game, Heinrich Klaasen was asked about the impact on CSK in the absence of MS Dhoni, to which he gave a blunt reply. Klaasen, one of the best players in the tournament, stated that Dhoni's presence doesn't make much difference since he plays just 5-10 balls. However, he also mentioned that CSK are a strong team and the match is going to be competitive.

"CSK has got an incredible IPL record. Even with Dhoni not being there, they are not much of a less side. They are a very strong side. It's not going to be an easy game. They are always a good, challenging side," Klaasen spoke on JioStar Press Room ahead of IPL 2026 - Rivalry Week.

"Dhoni not there doesn't really make much of a difference, it is more about other guys. With Dhoni not there, I think the crowd will be a little bit quieter. I don't think his absence will make such a big impact except for his leadership. He has been coming to bat for just 5-10 balls in the last few years," he added.

Debate grows over Dhoni’s role in IPL 2026

MS Dhoni is the only player who has been with the Super Kings since 2008. He continues to play for the team even after giving up the captaincy to Ruturaj Gaikwad. However, his participation in the last few years has definitely raised a lot of questions among the fans. The 44-year-old player comes to bat down the order and faces fewer deliveries than usual. 

This has not benefited the team in any manner. There was a lot of criticism regarding Dhoni's batting order and whether he should bat up the order to help the team put on more runs on the board. It will be intriguing to see how CSK will manage the playing XI in the upcoming match now that both Dhoni and Dewald Brevis are fit and will be back in the team.