MS Dhoni has yet to play in IPL 2026. Image Credits- AFP
MS Dhoni's IPL Retirement has been the talking point of the Indian Premier League (IPL 2026), especially after Chennai Super Kings (CSK) played their last home game of the season, but without the former captain.
The 44-year-old wicketkeeper has yet to play a single match for CSK after sustaining multiple injuries. Initially, he was ruled out for just two weeks of the tournament due to a calf injury, but he is currently nursing a thumb injury.
IPL 2026 touted as MS Dhoni's last dance
On Monday, the five-time champions played their second league home match against SRH at home, with the Chepauk filled with loyal MS Dhoni fans to witness their beloved Thala for one last time in the IPL.
Although the crowd witnessed glimpses of MSD on the ground, the legendary cricketer didn't play. CSK still have one more league game to go, and they can qualify for the playoffs from this stage.
As Dhoni had planned his final T20I in Ranchi, fans have been calling for MS Dhoni's IPL Retirement to be in Chennai. With IPL 2026 touted as his last season, featuring in CSK vs SRH could have been the perfect farewell for the former Chennai captain.
Also Read: CSK Issue Official Statement On MS Dhoni's IPL Future For 2027 Season
Suresh Raina on MS Dhoni's IPL Retirement
There have also been reports regarding MS Dhoni coming back in IPL 2027. To put more weight into the argument, CSK legend Suresh Raina has revealed how he asked MSD to return for one more season. However, the former CSK captain himself hinted at MS Dhoni's IPL Retirement.
"“I told MS Dhoni ‘you have given IPL 2026 a missed call. It won’t count. You have to come back next year’. He said ‘nahi yaar, body thoda waisa hai (my body is a little weak)’. I said ‘we are not believing anything. You have to play next year’. It’s his personal call. I think he is positive. The team is also gelling well again,” Suresh Raina told Star Sports during the post-match show after CSK vs SRH.
CSK's journey in IPL 2026 without MS Dhoni
Without MS Dhoni, the Ruturaj Gaikwad-led CSK got off to a rocky start in the IPL 2026. However, the five-time champions slowly but steadily revived their campaign despite regular injuries in their camp.
Sanju Samson's batting form has been the biggest positive for Chennai, while Anshul Kamboj and Akeal Hosein have been doing the major weightlifting for them, with a couple of match-winning performances from the some other players.
However, after 13 matches, CSK have won six and lost seven, sitting in sixth place in the IPL 2026 Points Table. They are still in the race for the playoffs, but would need to beat GT in their final game and hope Rajasthan, Delhi and Punjab finish below them.
Also Read: "Karma Never Forgets": Ishan Kishan Belted By Chennai Super Kings Fans For Cold Instagram Post
