Mahi hinted at his future in IPL 2027: decision depends on medical check-up results
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Aaj Tak
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Mahi hinted at his future in IPL 2027: decision depends on medical check-up results

Uncertainty surrounds the future of Mahendra Singh Dhoni in the Indian Premier League (IPL). The former captain of the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) provided important information regarding his potential participation in the IPL 2027 season. According to Dhoni, the decision on his involvement in the next season will be made after undergoing fitness tests.

He stated that he will assess his physical condition before December to determine how ready he is to play another season. During an event in Bangalore, when asked about IPL 2027, he said: 'I need to undergo a fitness test. After reviewing the report, I will have to assess by December how ready I am to play another season. If I am not in shape, you need to ensure everything is fixed so this old machine can run well on the road.'

Although MS Dhoni's statement raised hopes among fans, he did not confirm his participation in the next season. His final decision will depend on the results of medical examinations and physical fitness checks. Previously, Dhoni could not participate in IPL 2026 due to injury and physical condition issues. In his absence, CSK's performance was disappointing, and the team failed to reach the playoffs for the third consecutive season.

MS Dhoni also openly commented on the team's recent match. He noted: 'I always believed that how good your team looks on paper is not as important. The most important thing is how you play on that specific day. In a short format like T20, the difference between top teams is very small. We have been fighting for the last two years, and that is an undeniable truth.'

MS Dhoni also highly praised the performances of Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) over the last two seasons, acknowledging that CSK also needs to achieve consistency. He said: 'RCB has shown impressive play in recent years, whereas we have not been able to do so. Every team has good and bad days, but the real test comes when things don't go according to plan. At such times, it is important to see in which areas the team can improve.'

Discussing the future plans of Chennai Super Kings, MS Dhoni emphasized the importance of preventing injuries and ensuring the availability of physically fit players throughout the tournament. He added: 'I hope we can avoid injuries, and our players who are in shape will be available throughout the tournament. This will make it easier for the team to fulfill its role and responsibilities.'

Now all attention is focused on MS Dhoni's fitness assessment, which will take place before December. Only then will it become clear whether Mahi will return to the yellow jersey of Chennai in IPL 2027.

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Possible absence of Mitchell Starc in IPL 2027 raises concerns for Delhi Capitals
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Possible absence of Mitchell Starc in IPL 2027 raises concerns for Delhi Capitals

Concerns have arisen regarding the participation of Australian fast bowler Mitchell Starc in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2027, which could create difficulties for the Delhi Capitals (DC) team.

Mitchell Starc has not yet made a final decision about his involvement in the tournament. His priority remains playing for the Australian national team in Test matches, and the upcoming demanding schedule of Test games next year may play a decisive role in his choice. Consequently, Delhi Capitals are forced to wait for clarity regarding Starc's availability.

Throughout his career, Mitchell Starc has repeatedly prioritized the Australian national team over franchise cricket. He was absent from the IPL from 2016 to 2023, citing the need for rest, mental recovery, and time spent with family. Starc returned to the IPL in 2024, playing for Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), after which he joined Delhi Capitals. According to available information, he has not yet decided on his plans to play for the Delhi team in IPL 2027.

His availability will be monitored under the guidance of Delhi Capitals' new head coach, Saurav Ganguly. Australia is scheduled to play five Test matches against England in the Ashes series, which begins on June 18th at Trent Bridge. Following this, the matches will take place at Lord's, Edgbaston, Southampton, and The Oval.

If Australia qualifies for the 2025-27 World Test Championship final, the schedule of its key players could become very tight. The final is planned for June 9th to 13th at The Oval. After this, players may have limited time to prepare for the Ashes series. Since the IPL is usually held before the summer Test season in England, the Ashes series itself does not exclude Starc from the league. Nevertheless, he might distance himself from the IPL to prioritize fitness and rest before the demanding five-match Test series.

In his IPL career, Mitchell Starc has taken 76 wickets in 58 matches. His best performance is five wickets for 35 runs conceded. In 2024 for Kolkata Knight Riders, he took 17 wickets in 14 matches, and in 2025 for Delhi Capitals—14 wickets in 11 matches. In IPL 2026, Starc secured 11 wickets in six matches for Delhi. His best performance that season was four wickets for 40 runs conceded. According to reports, his total earnings from the IPL reached 77.65 crore rupees, including 11.75 crore rupees earned during the 2026 season.

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