Sanju Samson reveals MS Dhoni’s substantial contribution despite missing from action in IPL 2026

Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 is set to witness a massive clash between Mumbai Indians (MI) and Chennai Super Kings on Thursday night. The much anticipated clash between the two five-time IPL winners is set to take place at the Wankhede Stadium. One of the biggest questions is whether former India and CSK skipper MS Dhoni will take the field.

Sanju Samson, playing his first season for the Men in Yellow shed some light on Thala Dhoni’s involvement. The 31-year-old said that playing for CSK was a huge responsibility and called his team ‘star-studded’.

According to him, he is settling into the team nicely and following the core values set by the former Indian skipper. One of values is showing no arrogance despite winning the IPL title on five occasions. CSK’s opening batter also said that everyone in the team maintains a calm composure.

First experience of IPL El Clásico for Samson

The game on Thursday night in Mumbai will be the first ever occasion where the Kerala born star will get to play the IPL’s El Clasico. Both Chennai and Mumbai have won the title on five occasions and will be looking to assert their dominance. Hardik Pandy’s team is currently sixth in the table just above Ruturaj Gaikwad’s side.

In the six games so far this campaign, Sanju has scored 192 runs at an average of 38 and strike-rate of 174. His best of 115 not out came in the game against Delhi Capitals helping his side win the encounter by 23 runs.

Thala’s return on the cards?

There could be some massive good news for the iconic number 7’s fans as Dhoni was seen training ahead of the huge encounter. The 44-year-old had missed the previous encounters due to the calf injury he had suffered ahead of the new season.

Ruturaj’ men lost their previous encounter against Sunrisers Hyderabad which halted a mini-run of two wins. Both sides will be keen to win the game to keep their playoff hopes alive in what promising to be a cracking contest.