MS Dhoni returned to the MA Chidambaram Stadium on matchday for Chennai Super Kings’ final home game of IPL 2026 against Sunrisers Hyderabad, stepping back into the Chepauk atmosphere with a calm, composed presence. While the veteran’s long-term plans remain unconfirmed, his actions during the day—interacting with teammates, taking a circuit of the ground, and engaging with supporters—added fresh fuel to the growing belief that this could be his last season in the league.
Key takeaways
- Dhoni featured at Chepauk for CSK’s last home match of IPL 2026 versus Sunrisers Hyderabad.
- Sunrisers Hyderabad booked a playoff berth after Ishan Kishan guided them to a five-wicket win over Chennai.
- Hyderabad’s result also secured Gujarat Titans’ place in the four-team playoffs.
- Royal Challengers Bengaluru were already confirmed for the knockouts, leaving just one spot to be decided.
- Chennai finished on 180/7, with Pat Cummins taking 3/28 and support from Sakib Hussain (2/34) and Eshan Malinga (1/26).
Dhoni’s Chepauk return and the future question
Dhoni came back to the venue on a day when Chennai were set to play their final match at home in IPL 2026. The Chennai captain returned to the MA Chidambaram Stadium and joined the players on the field before taking a brief tour of the stadium, stopping to click photographs and wave at fans in the stands. Despite ongoing chatter about what comes next for his career, he appeared relaxed as he interacted with the squad on Monday, and even Sunrisers Hyderabad players looked visibly impressed by the India icon’s presence.
There has been no official word from Dhoni about his future, but speculation has intensified that IPL 2026 could be his final season in the competition. With Sanju Samson already set to stand behind the stumps and the franchise reportedly planning to shape a younger core, Dhoni’s return for the following season is considered unlikely. His gestures and demeanour after the Sunrisers match have been read by many as a subtle hint.
Sunrisers qualify as Kishan and Klaasen steer the chase
Sunrisers Hyderabad confirmed their place in the Indian Premier League playoffs following their Monday win over Chennai Super Kings, a game in which Ishan Kishan played the defining role. Kishan’s spell of batting anchored Hyderabad’s successful chase, and the five-wicket victory didn’t just secure qualification for the side—it also guaranteed Gujarat Titans a slot in the four-team playoffs.
With defending champions and league leaders Royal Challengers Bengaluru already through to the knockout stages, the tournament’s playoff picture came down to one remaining berth. Chennai were still mathematically in the hunt, but they needed a win against Gujarat in their last league match on Thursday and also required other results to fall in their favour.
How the match unfolded
Hyderabad, returning after a week away from action, looked in control throughout the chase. They raced to 181/5 with an over to spare, as Kishan struck quickly, making 70 off 47 balls. Heinrich Klaasen complemented him by handling the spin and finishing with 47 from just 26 deliveries, helping Hyderabad turn the target into a comfortable finish.
Chennai’s innings ended on 180/7. They struggled at times against the speed and variety coming from the Hyderabad bowling unit, but they had enough momentum in the middle overs thanks to contributions from Dewald Brevis (44) and Kartik Sharma (32), who kept the run-rate moving during the crucial phases.
Even so, Hyderabad’s bowlers found breakthroughs when it mattered most. Pat Cummins led the attack with figures of 3/28, while Sakib Hussain added 2/34 and Eshan Malinga contributed 1/26. On a slow surface, the match swung further in Hyderabad’s favour after the key partnership between Kishan and Klaasen.
Kishan and Klaasen put together a 75-run stand for the third wicket, until Klaasen was dismissed when he was stumped. From there, Kishan carried on with the chase, guiding his team to within touching distance and ultimately past the target to secure the win.
