MS Dhoni’s unusual absence from the Chennai Super Kings dugout during IPL 2026 has quickly become a talking point, with fans wondering why the veteran isn’t even taking his usual seat on match days. Now, CSK batting coach Michael Hussey has lifted the lid on the thinking behind Dhoni’s decision.
Speaking before CSK’s high-profile meeting with Mumbai Indians at Chepauk, Hussey said Dhoni deliberately chose to stay away to prevent himself from becoming a distraction. In Hussey’s view, Dhoni’s mindset remains firmly rooted in what benefits the team most, even if that means giving up visibility.
Quick facts
- MS Dhoni is absent from the CSK dugout in IPL 2026
- Michael Hussey said Dhoni stayed away to avoid distracting the playing group
- Dhoni is recovering from a calf injury
- Despite being in the squad since pre-season, Dhoni has not played a single match so far
Hussey explained that the spotlight would naturally intensify around Dhoni if he were present—cameras, crowd reaction and constant attention. Dhoni, according to Hussey, felt it would take focus away from the job the team needed to do on the day.
“He’s such a team-oriented guy,” Hussey said, adding that Dhoni was concerned the attention on him could disrupt the rhythm of the players. The batting coach stressed that Dhoni wanted the squad to operate without added noise, letting the match plan take centre stage.
Hussey also pointed out that Dhoni has been part of CSK’s setup since the pre-season, but the wicketkeeper-batter has not made an appearance in any game yet. His absence on match days, Hussey said, is intentional—aimed at keeping attention on the group that is actually playing.
Recovery, not the spotlight
While Dhoni is not featuring in the dugout, Hussey noted that he hasn’t gone quiet behind the scenes. Dhoni has continued to stay involved by attending training sessions regularly and interacting with the players as the season progresses.
On the injury front, Hussey offered encouragement, suggesting Dhoni’s return could be close, though no exact date has been locked in. He indicated that progress is being measured around how the calf responds under increasing loads.
Hussey said Dhoni has been working on building up running speed, which he described as the key sticking point. From a skills standpoint, the coach expressed confidence—highlighting that Dhoni’s batting and wicketkeeping capabilities remain ready, provided the body can handle the movement demands.
“Hopefully, he’ll be back as soon as possible,” Hussey said, adding that the timeframe could land as early as the next game or shortly after. He framed it as a confidence check for Dhoni’s calf—once he feels secure in that department, he can be given the green light to return.
With Dhoni continuing his comeback work and CSK preparing for another crucial phase of the season, Hussey’s comments suggest the veteran’s next step is still driven by one priority: getting back at the right moment without pulling focus from the team’s immediate tasks.
