Chennai Super Kings CEO Kasi Viswanathan announced on 3 February 2026 that the franchise was actively planning to participate in the WPL when the league next expands its franchise count. MS Dhoni was named as expected to be a key part of the CSK Women's management structure if and when the franchise is admitted.
The WPL launched in 2023 with five franchises and has not yet expanded the count. The BCCI has indicated that an expansion is likely in the medium term as the league's commercial scale grows. CSK's announcement positions the franchise as a leading candidate for any expansion.
The Dhoni angle gave the announcement its commercial weight. Dhoni's profile as a senior cricket figure — a former India captain, an enduring national figure, and the CSK franchise's most associated face — would lend the side an immediate brand identity. The announcement did not specify Dhoni's exact role but positioned him as central to the management structure.
CSK has not formally been admitted to the WPL. The announcement is a statement of intent rather than a confirmed addition.
WPL launched 2023 with five franchises
BCCI has indicated medium-term expansion likely
3 February 2026 — CSK CEO Kasi Viswanathan announces participation plans
MS Dhoni positioned as expected key management figure
Statement of intent rather than confirmed admission
CSK CEO announced on 3 February 2026 that the franchise plans to participate in the WPL when the league next expands. MS Dhoni positioned as a key management figure. No formal admission yet.
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