MS Dhoni has been the heart and soul of Chennai Super Kings (CSK) since the beginning of the Indian Premier League (IPL). As both a captain and wicketkeeper, he has led the team with calmness, experience, and sharp decision-making. However, with Dhoni likely nearing retirement, CSK will need to find a suitable replacement behind the stumps.
Here are three potential wicketkeeper-batsmen already in or associated with CSK and three wicketkeeper-batsmen who CSK might pick in the upcoming auction, who could take over the gloves if Dhoni decides to retire:
1. Vansh Bedi
- Role: Wicketkeeper-Batsman
- Age: 22 years
- Domestic Team: Delhi
Vansh Bedi is a young and aggressive wicketkeeper-batsman who joined CSK in IPL 2025. Though ruled out of the season due to injury, the franchise sees long-term potential in him. Known for his fearless batting and sharp glove work, Bedi’s domestic form impressed selectors. If he returns fit, he could be groomed as a future regular in the squad.
2. Urvil Patel
- Role: Wicketkeeper-Batsman
- Age: 26 years
- Domestic Team: Gujarat
Urvil Patel replaced Vansh Bedi in CSK’s IPL 2025 squad after Bedi’s injury. A hard-hitting batter and confident keeper, he impressed in the 2023-24 Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy with 315 runs in 6 matches at an average of 78.75 and a strike rate over 230. His aggressive style and steady keeping make him a strong contender to replace Dhoni if he continues his form.
3. Devon Conway
- Role: Wicketkeeper-Batsman (Overseas)
- Age: 34 years
- Nationality: New Zealand
Devon Conway, an experienced wicketkeeper-batsman, has played several matches for CSK and kept wickets for New Zealand and other teams. A technically sound left-hander, he can anchor or accelerate as needed. Though limited by the overseas player quota, Conway remains CSK’s most reliable short-term option in the post-Dhoni transition.
Auction Possibilities
1. Sanju Samson
Why Sanju Samson? – Sanju Samson is one of the best Indian wicketkeeper-batsmen in the IPL. He has scored over 4,704 runs in the tournament, with 3 centuries and a strike rate of nearly 139.04. He is known for his calm nature and explosive batting at the top of the order.
He has also led Rajasthan Royals (RR) for several seasons and shown strong leadership skills. This makes him a great option not just as a player, but possibly as a future captain of CSK.
Auction or Trade?
There have been multiple reports that CSK is interested in trading for Sanju Samson before IPL 2026. The deal could happen through the IPL trade window as an all-cash trade, since CSK will likely not trade their current captain, Ruturaj Gaikwad.
2. Ishan Kishan
Why Ishan Kishan? – Ishan Kishan is an aggressive left-handed batsman and a wicketkeeper. In the 2025 IPL season, he scored 354 runs, with a healthy strike rate of over 152.59, including a century. He is especially strong in the powerplay and brings energy to any batting lineup.
He comes from Jharkhand, just like Dhoni, and has already played for India in T20s and ODIs. His fearless attitude and big-hitting ability make him a good option for CSK’s future.
Auction or Trade?
Ishan Kishan is currently with Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) , but if he is released or traded, CSK could try to bring him in during the IPL 2026 auction. He would likely be expensive, but CSK has a history of investing in long-term talents.
3. Rishabh Pant
Why Rishabh Pant? – Rishabh Pant is one of India’s top wicketkeeper-batsmen. Known for his aggressive batting style and bold stroke-play, he has played in all formats for India and led the Delhi Capitals (DC) and Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) in the IPL.
Although his recent form has been mixed, he still holds huge value as a match-winner. He is also a strong leader and could step into a guiding role at CSK after Dhoni.
Auction or Trade?
Pant is a big name and might not be easily available. But if Lucknow Super Giants decide to rebuild or release him, CSK could go all out for him in the IPL 2026 mini-auction.
Conclusion
While replacing a legend like MS Dhoni is no easy task, CSK has a mix of in-house talent and promising auction options to choose from. Youngsters like Vansh Bedi and Urvil Patel offer long-term potential, while Devon Conway provides immediate experience.
On the other hand, proven IPL stars like Sanju Samson, Ishan Kishan, and Rishabh Pant could bring both skill and leadership to the team. Whether through grooming young talent or making a big move at the auction, CSK’s next wicketkeeper will have big shoes to fill, but a strong foundation to build on.
Written by Kinjal Walantra
