The MA Chidambaram Stadium could witness the return of veteran wicketkeeper-batter MS Dhoni for the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) match against Sunrisers Hyderabad. Speculation surrounding Dhoni’s IPL future and possible retirement has grown among fans ahead of the Super Kings’ final home game of the season.
The Ruturaj Gaikwad-led team will face SRH on Monday, May 18, at the MA Chidambaram Stadium. CSK are at sixth in the points table with 12 points from 12 matches. They must win their remaining two league games to keep their playoff hopes alive after their recent defeat against Lucknow Super Giants (LSG).
There Is a Good Chance of MS Dhoni Playing - Ravichandran Ashwin
Former Chennai Super Kings teammate Ravichandran Ashwin shared a positive update regarding MS Dhoni’s availability. Speaking on his YouTube channel, Ashwin said that he had received information suggesting Dhoni is fit enough to play in the home match against Sunrisers Hyderabad.
“I have a feeling that against Sunrisers Hyderabad, there is a good chance of MS Dhoni playing. Let’s wait and see how it goes. As far as I have heard, he has been ready to take the field for the last two to three games,” Ashwin said on his YouTube channel.
The 44-year-old suffered a calf injury before the start of the tournament. Chennai Super Kings initially expected him to recover within two weeks, but he has not featured in a matchday squad even after seven weeks. Although he returned to training earlier, he did not travel with the team for away matches.
The wicketkeeper also stayed away from the squad during home games to avoid unnecessary attention. However, the management could consider bringing the veteran into the playing XI in place of Prashant Veer, who has struggled with the bat in recent matches.
Stephen Fleming and Michael Hussey Provide Updates on MS Dhoni’s Fitness
Earlier in the season, head coach Stephen Fleming revealed that MS Dhoni suffered a setback during his recovery, which delayed his return beyond the original two-week timeline announced by the franchise.
Batting coach Michael Hussey also spoke about Dhoni’s condition after recent training sessions. Hussey admitted that concerns still remain regarding his movement and running between the wickets during match situations.
Dhoni came closest to returning when Chennai Super Kings booked his travel for the away game against Lucknow Super Giants, but he eventually decided not to join the squad. Ahead of the Sunrisers Hyderabad match, he trained normally and spent significant time batting in the nets.
Fast bowler Spencer Johnson attended the pre-match press conference but avoided answering direct questions about Dhoni’s availability. Although local reporters noticed Dhoni training with the squad, his presence in practice sessions has not confirmed his participation in matches this season.
Will MS Dhoni Retire After IPL 2026?
People close to the franchise and MS Dhoni have not provided any clear update regarding his retirement plans. Dhoni has always kept major career decisions private, leaving fans uncertain about whether he will continue playing beyond this season.
The veteran wicketkeeper had earlier expressed his wish to finish his career at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in front of Chennai Super Kings fans. Since this is the Chennai Super Kings’ final home game of the league stage, many believe it could become his last appearance at Chepauk.
The franchise is expected to confirm Dhoni’s availability only after the team reaches the stadium on match day. This could be the final opportunity for home fans to watch him play at the venue.
Also read: CPL 2026 squads revealed as TKR retain Nicholas Pooran, Sunil Narine, and Kieron Pollard
