IPL 2027: 3 players who can replace MS Dhoni at CSK

MS Dhoni missed the entirety of the Indian Premier League (IPL) this year after struggling with injury concerns. He was with the squad and even joined the team on the ground in some games, but fans couldn't get to see the legendary cricketer in action, hitting those towering sixes and bamboozling batters with his lightning-fast glovework. Dhoni will turn 45 years old in less than a month.

He has been dealing with knee issues in the last few seasons, and IPL 2027 might finally be his swansong, as the mega auction will take place ahead of IPL 2028. This year, the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) finished eighth on the points table under Ruturaj Gaikwad's captaincy.

The five-time champions did miss Dhoni's presence on the field. His experience of the game has proven to be very crucial in match situations over the years. CSK also missed the wicketkeeper-batter's ability to finish games. In IPL 2027, Chennai should look to prepare themselves for life beyond MS Dhoni. Let's take a look at three players who can replace the stalwart in CSK's squad from next season.

Urvil Patel has played 10 matches so far for CSK, and all of them have been as a specialist batter. However, he is actually a proper wicketkeeper. Urvil is 27 years old and has a lot of time on his side to improve, both as a wicketkeeper and as a batter.

From his first two seasons at CSK, it is clear that the Mehsana-born has talent and can hit the ball as well as his contemporaries. He has an impressive strike rate of 205.21. If he can work on his shot selection, he could have a great season for CSK next year.