Ahmedabad: MS Dhoni will not be part of Chennai Super Kings’ final IPL 2026 league fixture against Gujarat Titans in Ahmedabad on Thursday, May 21, confirmed CSK batting coach Mike Hussey. Dhoni has returned to his hometown in Ranchi after leaving the CSK camp early.
Dhoni, who had recovered from a calf strain sustained before the tournament, suffered a setback during his recovery that kept him out throughout IPL 2026. He has since sustained a thumb injury that rules him out of the GT fixture.
Hussey confirmed Dhoni could return if CSK make the playoffs. “I can confirm Dhoni is not here in Ahmedabad with the team, but if we do happen to qualify, he’ll definitely join back up with the squad. He’s got a bit of a sore thumb. He’s recovering nicely, but he won’t be ready for this match. If we manage to get through to the playoffs, hopefully he’ll be alright,” Hussey said.
Dhoni had come close to returning for CSK’s away game against Lucknow Super Giants and the home tie against Sunrisers Hyderabad, but decided against making himself available as he was not feeling fully fit. He was reported to have been travelling with the team to Lucknow before dropping out at the last minute.
Also Read: Pandey Keeps Kolkata’s Play-off Hopes Alive
His last appearance for the side was during CSK’s post-match lap at the Chepauk.
A win against GT will not guarantee CSK a playoff berth, but a loss will eliminate them from the top-four race. CSK currently sit seventh on the IPL 2026 points table with 12 points from 13 matches.
Dhoni turns 45 in July. Having remained unavailable for selection throughout this season, questions over his future at CSK persist, though he has repeatedly surprised observers in recent years with decisions to continue playing.