IPL 2026: Chennai Super Kings captain Ruturaj Gaikwad dropped a major hint on MS Dhoni’s possible return ahead of Match 63 of the Indian Premier League 2026 against Sunrisers Hyderabad at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai on Monday, May 18, 2026. Speaking at the toss, Gaikwad confirmed that Dhoni remained unavailable due to fitness concerns but hinted that the veteran wicketkeeper-batter could return for Chennai’s final league-stage match against Gujarat Titans in Ahmedabad if CSK defeat SRH.
“He's still here, but he's not fit enough to play this game. Hopefully we win this one and you'll never know in the last game,” Gaikwad said at the toss.
The statement ended days of speculation surrounding Dhoni’s possible comeback in Chennai’s final home game of the season. Fans gathered in large numbers at Chepauk hoping to witness the former India captain’s first appearance of IPL 2026 amid increasing discussion over a possible farewell season.
Dhoni has not featured in a single match this season after suffering a calf strain during CSK’s pre-season training camp. Although earlier reports suggested that the 43-year-old had regained fitness, he reportedly suffered another setback during rehabilitation.
Recent reports also indicated that Dhoni has been dealing with a thumb injury, which may have further delayed his return to competitive action.
Chennai Super Kings entered the match needing a victory to keep their playoff hopes alive. A defeat against SRH would severely dent their chances of qualifying for the IPL 2026 playoffs.
It now remains to be seen whether Dhoni will finally return for CSK’s final league-stage fixture against Gujarat Titans later this week.
