With less than six months to go for the T20 World Cup 2026, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has reached out to MS Dhoni once again.
The board reportedly wants him to guide the team as a mentor, just like he did during the 2021 T20 World Cup.
Now, with another global event around the corner, BCCI feels his experience could be important for the young squad.
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Why does BCCI want Dhoni as mentor again?
The board believes Dhoni’s calm leadership, sharp tactical mind, and big-match experience could help India defend their title.
He has already proved his ability to guide teams in pressure tournaments, both with India and Chennai Super Kings in the IPL.
The upcoming World Cup is expected to see many youngsters in the squad. Having Dhoni in the camp could give them extra confidence before playing on the big stage.
Dhoni last took the mentor role during the 2021 T20 World Cup in the UAE. Virat Kohli was the captain at that time, and Ravi Shastri was the head coach.
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India, however, crashed out in the group stage, including a heavy defeat to Pakistan. Even though the results did not go India’s way, Dhoni’s advice was appreciated, and many youngsters shared how he helped them.
Will Dhoni accept BCCI’s mentor role offered to him?
Reports, however, suggest that Dhoni may not be keen this time. One of the main reasons could be the presence of Gautam Gambhir as India’s head coach.
While both players respect each other, they have had differences in the past, and that could make the partnership difficult.
According to insiders, Dhoni is unlikely to accept the role, though nothing has been made official yet.
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For now, the question remains: will MS Dhoni accept the BCCI’s call, or will he stay away from the mentor role this time? Fans will have to wait for the answer.