Former Indian cricketer Ravichandran Ashwin has said that it becomes very tough for the Chennai Super Kings to accommodate former captain MS Dhoni within their lineup and hence, it might be so that fans
don’t get a glimpse of the latter during the remaining duration of IPL 2026.
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Dhoni hasn’t played a single match this season due to a calf strain, while CSK have recovered form in his absence.
Chennai Super Kings strengthened their playoff hopes on Tuesday with a comfortable victory over the Delhi Capitals in New Delhi, continuing a strong run even without Dhoni in the playing XI.
“If MS Dhoni comes, then the combination will be changed. It becomes very difficult, so I think there are very slim chances [of making a comeback]. If they lose two of their next three games, then he might get a farewell game in Chennai,” Ashwin said while speaking on his YouTube channel.
The timing of Ashwin’s remarks adds a fascinating layer to the narrative. For the first time in recent memory, the Chennai Super Kings appear to have found their footing and a sense of permanence, moving forward with a settled team rather than remaining in a state of flux while waiting for Dhoni’s status update.
Dhoni hasn’t played a single match in IPL 2026 till now after suffering a calf strain before the start of the season.
While Chennai Super Kings have maintained that Dhoni could return at some stage, he has stayed away from matchdays despite training in the nets.
In the early phase of the season, CSK looked short on balance without Dhoni. But over the last few matches, things have begun clicking.
The team is hitting their stride. The batters are in a great groove, the bowlers are performing and cricketers like Sanju Samson have stepped up to lead the way during this crucial part of the season.
