MS Dhoni, the iconic Chennai Super Kings (CSK) star, has missed the entire IPL 2026 league stage so far due to a recurring calf strain. The injury originated in pre-season training or a warm-up game shortly before the tournament, forcing CSK to issue an official statement that he would likely miss the first two weeks.
Dhoni pushed his recovery aggressively in a practice/warm-up match, tweaking the same calf muscle again. This setback extended his absence significantly, as head coach Stephen Fleming noted the delicacy of calf injuries: a re-tear could sideline him for the entire season.
By early May, batting coach Michael Hussey reported steady improvement. Dhoni worked intensely on running speed between wickets, faced throwdowns in nets at Chepauk,
and cleared some fitness tests. However, he has not been 100% match-fit, often staying back in Chennai for rehab during away games rather than travelling or risking disruption to team balance.
MyKhel understands that Dhoni aggravated the old injury during practice, which has further pushed back his potential return. A source told this website that the veteran's initial strain was a minor one, but the subsequent issue has taken a toll.
Is MS Dhoni Retiring?
MyKhel also understands that MS Dhoni is unlikely to retire after the IPL 2026 season. But if the former India captain fails to regain fitness ahead of IPL 2027, he may call it quits.
"MS is not someone who will take money from a franchise without playing. A retirement is completely his decision but if he is unable to play, he will retire," the source said.
But even if Dhoni retires as a player, he is pretty much the nucleus of Chennai Super Kings and the franchise is certain to navigate his role.
"CSK won't let him go. If Dhoni decides to retire, they will give him a different role. "
Although the decision has not been made yet, Dhoni may find himself in a mentoring or other role, closer to the CSK hierarchy and decision-making in future seasons.
The five-time IPL champions bring the curtain down at Chepauk on Monday (May 18) against the Sunrisers Hyderabad. Although they remain firmly in the playoff race, Dhoni's future with the Super Kings as a player hangs in the balance.
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