Aakash Chopra calls 25 percent Dhoni stake claim unrealistic

Former India cricketer Aakash Chopra described reports that MS Dhoni sought a 25 percent stake in Chennai Super Kings as unrealistic and suggested they were planted. Multiple outlets had reported that Dhoni initially demanded up to a quarter of the franchise equity before lowering the target to 20 percent, while the management offered a baseline of 5.5 percent. The reported franchise valuation of Rs 3,820 crore underpinned the claim.

No official confirmation has come from Dhoni or CSK regarding any such negotiations. Dhoni remains under contract as a player with the franchise and continues to serve as an inspirational figure within the squad at age 45. The collapse of reported talks leaves uncertainty around the long-term association between Dhoni and the franchise he has represented since the IPL's inception.

The franchise must now clarify Dhoni's future role before appointing a replacement for Stephen Fleming, whose 18-year tenure as head coach ended after the 2026 season.