MS Dhoni, who was out of action this season due to injury, is now fit. But in order not to spoil CSK’s ‘winning combination’, he is probably away from the playing XI. Playing in their last home match in Chepauk is also uncertain.
New Delhi: “I have planned my cricket career well. My last ODI was in Ranchi. My last T20 will be in Chennai. I don’t even know when it will happen.”
These words were once said by MS Dhoni. And you know Dhoni’s style – to leave quietly without any noise. What else can be expected from Mahi, who bid goodbye to his international career on an Instagram post.
The truth is that this player who took Indian cricket and Chennai Super Kings (CSK) to the heights of success is now at the last stage of his career. But the fans don’t agree. He wants to see that ‘helicopter shot’ from Dhoni’s bat once again.
CSK is ready to play the last home match of this season. There is only one question in the minds of fans regarding this match to be held in Chepauk – will ‘Thala’ take the field? Will Dhoni be in the playing eleven? Let us understand what the possibilities are.
Dhoni has not played a single match for Chennai this season. The reason given was injury to the muscles below the knee. This injury worsened during practice, due to which he had to rest for a long time. The situation was such that many times he was not even traveling with the team to away matches. But if sources close to the team are to be believed, injury is not the only reason for Dhoni’s stay out.
Chennai, which faltered in the beginning of the season, has made a great comeback in the second half. The team has kept its playoff hopes alive by winning 6 out of the last 9 matches. On one hand, Chennai returned to the winning track, while on the other hand, Dhoni also became completely fit. But he did not return to the team. It is being said that Dhoni himself is behind this.
After struggling with injuries to many players, CSK has finally found a ‘winning combination’, which is also giving results on the field. The player coming to every batting position is performing his responsibility very well. If we look at the last two seasons, the team’s performance was not like that of the five-time champions. In 2024, the team finished fifth, but in 2025 it slipped to tenth place.
In such a situation, it is very important for Chennai to reach at least the playoffs in 2026. At present the balance of the team is excellent and the management is also happy with this combination. Now the question is whether it would be right to break this rhythm? If Dhoni comes into the team, there may be a change in the team structure, especially the batting line-up. This can spoil the balance of the team. It is believed that keeping this in mind, Dhoni is keeping himself away from the team.
Therefore, it cannot be said with certainty that Dhoni will return to the field. Chennai’s last match in Chepauk is against Sunrisers Hyderabad. This is a ‘do or die’ match for Ruturaj Gaikwad’s team. Hopes for playoff will remain only if they win. In such a situation, the management would hardly want to make any major changes in the team.
Dhoni is making a comeback after injury and how easy it will be to play without match practice at the age of 44 is also a question. Although, he has been seen practicing batting in the nets, but this cannot be considered as a sure sign. Fans are just hoping that he is seen on the field at least as an ‘impact player’.
The phase of change in Chennai is almost complete. Handing over the captaincy to Ruturaj Gaikwad and entry of Sanju Samson, all this indicates that Dhoni may not be seen in the next season. But as everyone knows, the final decision will be his.