IPL 2026: Ruturaj Gaikwad explains why MS Dhoni is not playing in CSK’s final match in Chepauk. Read
The atmosphere at MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai was electrifying as fans were filled with anticipation of seeing something special at the iconic venue. Chennai Super Kings Of Sunrisers Hyderabad They were going to face each other in an important match of IPL 2026, and the biggest talking point before the match was revolving around a single person — MS Dhoni. Speculations intensified after Dhoni reached Chepauk on the day of the match, raising hopes of a comeback. However, CSK captain Ruturaj Gaikwad confirmed at the time of the toss that the great wicketkeeper-batsman is still not fit to return to the game.
The match was also emotionally significant as it was Chennai Super Kings’ final home match of the IPL 2026 league stage. Thousands of supporters, wearing Dhoni’s jerseys, packed the stands, looking forward to a memorable evening, especially as rumors of a possible comeback had spread on social media throughout the day.
MS Dhoni’s injury problems continue in IPL 2026
Dhoni has not played a single match during IPL 2026 this season due to a series of fitness issues. The former CSK skipper suffered a calf strain during the initial season preparations, keeping him out of the early stages of the tournament. While fans were expecting a mid-season return, according to reports, the injury worsened during rehabilitation.
To make matters worse, Dhoni is also likely to have suffered a thumb injury during a practice session ahead of CSK’s clash against Lucknow Super Giants. Since then, the veteran cricketer has stayed away from active participation and has continued his recovery programme.
Interestingly, despite missing every match this season, Dhoni’s arrival at Chepauk on the match day created huge excitement in the Chennai crowd. So far, he has either been in the team hotel or in rehabilitation during home and away fixtures.
Ruturaj Gaikwad told why Dhoni is not playing in Chepauk
At the time of the toss, former Indian coach and commentator Ravi Shastri asked the question every fan wanted answered — would Dhoni finally make a comeback. Gaikwad faced the situation head-on, winning the toss and electing to bat first. While he confirmed that Dhoni will not play in this match, the CSK captain hinted that a comeback could be possible later in the season.
“He is still here but is not fit for this game. Hopefully we will win this match and you never know what will happen in the final match,” Gaikwad said at the time of the toss.
The statement immediately sparked new curiosity among CSK supporters, many of whom took it as a hint that Dhoni could return for the team’s final league-stage encounter if they remain in the playoff race.
CSK aim to keep playoff hopes alive
Apart from the Dhoni story, the importance of the match was also huge for Chennai Super Kings. A defeat against Sunrisers Hyderabad could have seriously affected their playoff hopes, making the encounter a virtual knockout.
Gaikwad’s decision to bat first also attracts attention as it was the first opportunity to set a target by a captain winning the toss in Chennai in IPL 2026. The CSK captain clarified that the pitch looked dry and less dew was expected in the evening, so batting first seemed to be the better option.
He also made it clear that CSK is aiming to post a strong total around 200 runs to put pressure on Hyderabad in the high-stakes encounter.
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