Chennai Super Kings bowling coach Eric Simons has delivered a significant update on whether MS Dhoni will feature in the IPL 2026 season. Dhoni has not played a single match in the tournament so far, with his early absence initially linked to a calf problem. After he returned to fitness through rehabilitation, another setback followed when he picked up a thumb injury ahead of CSK’s final must-win league fixture. Reports then suggested Dhoni went back to his home in Ranchi and would only rejoin the squad if the franchise managed to reach the playoffs. However, CSK fell short in that decisive match, losing to Gujarat Titans and suffering an 89-run defeat.
Before the game, the uncertainty around Dhoni’s availability was confirmed in CSK’s pre-match media interaction. Batting coach Michael Hussey stated that Dhoni was not part of the team setup for the clash. After the defeat, Simons was asked a direct question about whether Dhoni would be in action next season. His response was sharp and humorous: “Are you seriously asking me that question?”
Dhoni’s training progress and CSK’s decision-making
Simons also addressed what Dhoni has been doing during this period, saying that the wicketkeeper-batter has been in good form during training sessions. He explained that Dhoni’s earlier leg issue had affected his ability to move quickly, which is why he could not play, but insisted that the batting work in the nets has looked excellent.
“We always are. I mean, honestly, he has hit the ball so well. He obviously had a leg injury, which made it very difficult for him to run, so that’s why he couldn’t play. But in terms of hitting the ball in the nets, he’s hitting it as well as I’ve ever seen him hit it. But I keep saying this, only MS will know, and MS will make the decision about when he’s ready and when he’s right,” Simons said.
He further stressed that Dhoni’s call will be based on his own assessment of readiness, and that any return would be made with the team’s best interests in mind rather than personal considerations. Simons also pointed out the value Dhoni brings to the group even when he is not on the field.
“And I tell you what, if he knows he’s not, he won’t play. But if he is right, he will. He’ll make the decision in the best interest of the team and not for himself as an individual. But it will be great to have him playing. It’s been great just having him around the unit and being someone to tap into for knowledge and calmness,” he added.
How CSK’s season ended without playoffs
Dhoni’s absence has been felt throughout the campaign, with CSK failing to qualify for the playoffs. Supporters had hoped his experience and calm presence would return on match days, and stadium crowds were seen showing up with the expectation of seeing him play.
Despite a slow start, CSK managed a late push towards qualification. The revival was powered by strong contributions from opener Sanju Samson, which helped keep their playoff hopes alive for longer than expected. But ultimately, the late surge was not enough, and the franchise missed out on the postseason.
Simons reflected on what CSK gained from the season, highlighting the internal growth that came from learning how the group functions as a unit and making adjustments well before the match rather than reacting only to momentary form.
“I think a lot of the positives come around the fact that we started getting an understanding of ourselves as a unit. I think that’s an important part of winning an IPL, is that you get your balance right, and you have a side that can carry itself through, and your changes are made a long way before the game. Not because someone’s out of form, but because you’re moving into a particular condition,” Simons said.
He added that the process helped the team understand both collective strengths and individual limits more clearly.
“So we know ourselves a lot better as a unit, and we also know a lot of the individuals better, as to what they can and can’t do,” he added.
