MS Dhoni’s prolonged absence from the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) playing XI has sparked speculation among experts and fans alike. The franchise has played 13 matches in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 so far, yet the former captain has not featured in a single game, not even as an Impact Substitute. While Dhoni has dealt with multiple injuries this season, several media reports suggest he is unwilling to disrupt the current team combination.
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While Dhoni has denied travelling to most away games, he marked his presence at Chepauk on Monday, where CSK hosted Sunrisers Hyderabad. During the mid-innings break, the legendary wicketkeeper-batter walked out on the field for a team photo. He later
joined the squad for a post-match lap of honour, acknowledging the Chennai fans.
Former India and CSK spinner Ravichandran Ashwin felt that Dhoni’s love for CSK wasn’t evident on his face during his last walk at Chepauk this season.
“The point is, MS Dhoni loves CSK a lot. But what I saw yesterday during the lap, love was not visible to me. I just did not feel that happiness. I don’t know why,” said Ashwin on his YouTube channel.
He also questioned the veteran player for not joining his teammates at the ground on match days.
“My question is this: MS Dhoni has been part of this team for so many years and has been in the dressing room for every match. Even if he is not playing, he could still come to the ground. I’m thinking in my mind why MS Dhoni decided not to come to the ground on even one occasion for the match because we saw him practising in the nets,” Ashwin said.
“Is it a matter of thinking that if I go there, all attention will be on me, and it might disturb the team? But then that would mean you are keeping crowds away and not allowing fans to experience it properly. This is part and parcel of the game,” he added.
Meanwhile, a media report has claimed that Dhoni might part ways with CSK after IPL 2026. According to CricBlogger, the relationship between Dhoni and CSK has deteriorated, including differences of opinion and a long-term plan to phase out senior players, which played a significant role.
