The IPL 2026 has already crossed the one-month mark, yet the Chennai Super Kings still have not been given a clear signal on when MS Dhoni will make his return to the playing XI. The wicketkeeper-batter, who is 44, was initially expected to miss the opening stretch of the tournament, but the timeline for his comeback has continued to drift further into the season. Ahead of CSK’s next assignments, Dhoni has been training alongside the squad, but on match days he has made the decision to remain away from the venue.
Why Dhoni is skipping the stadium trips
- Before CSK’s game against the Mumbai Indians at MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai on Friday, CSK batting coach Michael Hussey explained Dhoni’s choice to not travel with the team.
- Hussey said Dhoni’s intention is to avoid becoming a distraction for the rest of the group, particularly if he arrives at the ground but does not take the field.
- The former Australia batter added that Dhoni understands how the cameras and crowd attention can shift the focus of a match, and that he has consciously opted to stay away for the team’s benefit.
- Hussey further noted Dhoni’s team-first mindset, describing him as someone who is always thinking about what will help the side and what may disrupt the team’s routine.
- While Hussey acknowledged that whether the approach is “right or wrong” is not his call, he said the underlying logic is that the squad can concentrate on its job without extra attention around Dhoni.
Speaking about Dhoni’s mindset, Hussey said the impact is not limited to the stadium itself—Dhoni has been following the matches closely from home. At the same time, to maintain the right environment for CSK on game days, he continues to stay away from the hotel and the match-time setup.
Dhoni’s impact in training and his progress
- Hussey said Dhoni’s presence in the dressing room brings valuable experience, adding that his advice and confidence help the players in the group.
- He said Dhoni is involved in training regularly and contributes with his upbeat personality, along with the wisdom he brings to the session.
- Asked for an update on whether Dhoni will be available for the Capitals, Hussey confirmed that the wicketkeeper-batter is progressing well after sustaining a calf strain.
- Hussey said Dhoni is expected to return “very soon,” though he did not pin down an exact day.
Hussey explained that the key factor is not only Dhoni’s batting and wicketkeeping readiness, but also his ability to maintain strong running power during the later stages of an innings—when quick “ones and twos” become crucial. He said Dhoni has been increasing his running speeds, which has likely been the sticking point, and once the calf provides the necessary confidence, he should be ready to go.
With CSK waiting on the final fitness check, Hussey described the situation as guided by Dhoni’s progression, adding that the franchise and its supporters are all hoping for his return soon.
