MS Dhoni to Miss Rest of IPL 2026? R Ashwin Weighs In on CSK Star’s Future
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The Uncertainty Surrounding MS Dhoni‘s IPL 2026 Campaign
As the business end of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 season approaches, one question continues to dominate conversations among cricket fans: Will MS Dhoni return to the field for the Chennai Super Kings? The legendary wicketkeeper-batter has been sidelined for the majority of the season while recovering from a persistent calf strain, and according to former teammate R Ashwin, the chances of seeing him in yellow again this year are slim.
R Ashwin’s Perspective on Dhoni’s Availability
In a recent conversation with journalist Vimal Kumar on his YouTube channel, R Ashwin provided a candid assessment of the situation. When probed about whether Dhoni might make a return to the CSK playing XI, Ashwin was direct: ‘The way things are going right now, I don’t think so.’
Ashwin explained that from a team balance perspective, it would be difficult for Chennai Super Kings to alter their current winning formula. With CSK fighting hard to maintain their momentum and qualify for the playoffs, experimenting with the lineup at this stage of the tournament is a risky proposition. However, Ashwin did leave a small window of possibility open, noting: ‘If they lose two of their next three matches, then he might get a farewell game in Chennai. That is a possibility.’
CSK’s Mid-Season Resurgence
Despite the absence of their iconic former captain, Chennai Super Kings have begun to find their rhythm when it matters most. Their recent victory against the Delhi Capitals served as a testament to their resilience. On a surface in Delhi that favored the spinners, CSK’s bowling attack was clinical, restricting Delhi Capitals to a modest 156/7.
The chase was anchored by a masterful performance from Sanju Samson, who scored an unbeaten 87, showing incredible composure against a sharp Kuldeep Yadav. Supported by cameos from Urvil Patel and a fighting 41 from Kartik Sharma, CSK managed to overcome the pressure to secure a vital win. This victory marked their third win in the last four matches, lifting the side to a precarious sixth position on the points table with 5 wins and 5 losses.
The Road to the Playoffs
With the playoff race heating up, Chennai Super Kings find themselves in a position where every match is a virtual knockout. The team’s next two encounters are against the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG). These back-to-back fixtures—one in Chennai on May 10 and the return leg in Lucknow on May 15—will ultimately define whether the defending champions have enough in the tank to make a deep run into the postseason.
The ‘Farewell’ Narrative
Ashwin was also asked about whether the current situation represents an ideal way for Dhoni to phase himself out of the sport. The off-spinner remained respectful and diplomatic, refusing to speculate on Dhoni’s personal choices. ‘I cannot talk about another person. How can I say if this is the best way for him to phase himself out? That is his choice,’ Ashwin added.
As it stands, the CSK management appears focused on maintaining the current team balance that has brought them back into playoff contention. Whether fans get one last glimpse of MS Dhoni on the field remains a subject of intense speculation, but for now, the focus is squarely on the collective goal of securing a spot in the top four.
Stay tuned to our platform for more updates as the IPL 2026 journey continues towards the playoffs. Will CSK seal their spot, and will the ‘Thala’ make a final appearance? Only time will tell.
