Mahendra Singh Dhoni He is yet to play in IPL 2026 as he is still recovering from a knee injury. His ability to return to action remains uncertain, and there is no clear timetable for his return. This setback is a blow to me chennai super kingsespecially after he was initially expected to miss only the early stages of the game. However, his recovery reportedly hit another roadblock with the injury reoccurring during training. Even in his absence, DhoniThe presence continues to dominate CSK matches. The stadium is packed for every game, and the sea of yellow jerseys and number sevens reflects the enduring bond between players and fans. However, the long wait for his return has left supporters increasingly frustrated, with speculation mounting before each game as to whether he will eventually be included in the squad.
Concerns are also growing over his future in the IPL. With recurring knee issues and age becoming a factor, there is a growing belief that IPL 2026 could be his last season. Some believe this game could mark the end of an era for one of the most influential figures in league history. Amid this uncertainty, the former Australian captain Michael Clark Strongly defended Dhoni and urged critics not to rush into discussing retirement. Clark highlighted Dhoni’s unparalleled influence on the Chennai Super Kings and his continued importance to the sport. “MS Dhoni is a player for CSK. If you go to a CSK match, everyone wears the yellow jersey number 7. As far as sponsors are concerned, every sponsor wants MS Dhoni to be part of the team. He is important in India and in CSK. However, age does not matter. No one can convince me that there is a better keeper than MS Dhoni.” He remains the best wicketkeeper in the T20s. He is also unique. So people need to be careful about wanting him to retire,” Clark said on the Beyond23 Cricket Podcast. Clark also said that Dhoni may not continue to be involved in the sport in any official capacity after his retirement. “When he retires, we may not see him involved in cricket. He certainly won’t comment. I doubt if he will continue to be a mentor to CSK. I can’t imagine him becoming a coach. So I would urge people not to wish him out anytime soon and try to keep him involved in the sport,” he added.
