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MS Dhoni at Chepauk - (Source: ScreenGrab/X.com)
The wait to see MS Dhoni in CSK colours is finally over as the 44-year-old superstar stepped on the pitch for the first time in IPL 2026. Notably, the former CSK captain travelled to Chepauk for the first time this season, but still missed the match because of a recent thumb injury.
Before the start of CSK vs SRH match, the fans were confident that MS Dhoni will play against SRH because it is Men in Yellow's last game at Chepauk Stadium. However, the fans were heartbroken when they learnt that the 44-year-old is still not available for selection.
MS Dhoni Steps On Field For First Time in IPL 2026
Even in the first innings, when CSK were batting, the camera couldn't capture MS Dhoni in the dug-out. However, the wait was over after the first innings as Thala stepped onto the pitch for the group photo.
It is a tradition across franchises to have a group-photo in their last home match of an IPL season. Therefore, MS Dhoni sat in the centre and got the group photo done, before rushing back to the pavillion.
Also Read: Fans Lose Calm With No Signs Of MS Dhoni As CSK Play Their Final Home Game In IPL 2026
CSK Makes Special Appeal To Fans After SRH Match
Notably, before the start of the CSK vs SRH match, the Men in Yellow made a special appeal to the fans which was to stay seated after the match. A section of fans got worried as they feared the worst; which is MS Dhoni's retirement news.
However, the fans were much relieved to learn that the appeal was to thank the fans for their constant support as CSK will perform a lap of honour since they are playing their last match at the Chepauk Stadium this season.
"It’s time to give back to you, Superfans 🥳🫂 Stay back and be a part of our annual ritual - Lap of Honour," wrote CSK on their official account.
Now the fans are happy that they will get to see a glimpse of MS Dhoni again during the annual lap of honour. Hence, it is expected that the Chepauk stadium will be jam packed even after the match ends.
Also Read: CSK Coach Refuses To Blame Ruturaj Gaikwad For Painful Knock At Chepauk
MS Dhoni's IPL Future Revealed
During the toss, Ruturaj Gaikwad provided massive update and revealed that MS Dhoni is struggling to regain full fitness but might return for CSK's last group-stage match against Gujarat Titans, which is on May 21 at the Narendra Modi Stadium.
"The good news is he's still here. But he's not fit enough to play this game. Hopefully we'll win this one and you never know maybe in the last game," remarked Ruturaj Gaikwad at the toss.
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