Chennai Super Kings (CSK) Legend MS Dhoni has yet to feature in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026, as the wicketkeeper-batter has missed the tournament due to a calf injury sustained during a training session while preparing for the tournament. There are speculations that Dhoni will play his farewell match on May 18 when CSK takes on Sunrisers Hyderabad at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai.

Why are fans speculating about MS Dhoni's retirement?

The excitement around the match at Chepauk has grown even more because of a statement Dhoni made during CSK’s IPL title celebrations back in 2021. At the time, he had said he hoped to play his final T20 match in Chennai someday.

“I have always planned my cricket. My last ODI home game was in Ranchi, so hopefully my final T20 game will be in Chennai. Whether it happens next year or after five years, we don’t know,” Dhoni had said.

Now, exactly five years later, CSK are scheduled to face SRH at Chepauk, and many believe this could turn out to be Dhoni’s farewell appearance in the IPL. With no more matches planned in Chennai after this fixture, fans are hoping to witness one last special moment from the iconic cricketer.

MS Dhoni's IPL career

MS Dhoni is one of the most successful captains to lead a franchise in the Indian Premier League (IPL). Under his captaincy, the Chennai-based franchise won five titles which is joint most. Dhoni played 278 IPL matches where he scored 5439 runs with a highest score of unbeaten 84. 

MS Dhoni fit to feature in CSK vs SRH clash

Former India spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has also hinted that Dhoni could feature in the game. Ashwin revealed that the 44-year-old has been fit and available for selection over the last few matches.

“I feel there is a good chance MS Dhoni will play against Sunrisers Hyderabad. From what I’ve heard, he has been ready for the last two or three games,” Ashwin said.

Although the CSK management has continued to stay quiet about Dhoni’s availability, there is a belief among fans that he may have stayed out to give the team management a chance to focus on building for the future. Some also feel his return could affect the current team combination.

Still, with CSK playing their final game of the season at Chepauk, supporters are hoping to see Dhoni walk onto the field one more time in what could possibly be his last IPL appearance in Chennai.


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