However, questions remain over the potential return of MS Dhoni in the 2026 Indian Premier League (IPL), with former CSK batter Subramaniam Badrinath expressing reservations about how the team would accommodate the veteran wicketkeeper-batter once he is fully fit.
With the five-time champions seemingly settling on a stable playing XI, Badrinath believes it could be difficult to reintegrate Dhoni into the side. He also suggested that the former India captain is unlikely to feature in the upcoming clash against Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) on Saturday.
“He is the elephant in the room. There is still no update on his return. But I feel he won’t play against SRH. Who he replaces remains a big question mark, especially when they’ve just got their combination sorted,” Badrinath said on his YouTube channel.
Badrinath further added that Dhoni’s continued absence for a game or two could even work in CSK’s favour, although his return would still bring significant value both on and off the field.
“It may be okay if he’s not back just yet. Though his fans want him back, I am not sure how the CSK management looks at this situation. If he comes back, Sanju Samson also has to field. But Dhoni’s return will definitely be a boost, especially on intangibles,” he added.
Dhoni has not featured for CSK this season as he continues to recover from a calf injury. The 44-year-old, however, travelled with the squad to Hyderabad ahead of their match against SRH and even participated in a net session, though his availability for Saturday remains uncertain.
He last played competitive cricket in the previous IPL season, featuring in 14 matches in 2025, scoring 196 runs at an average of 24.50 and a strike rate of 135.17. He also led CSK for most of the season in the absence of regular captain Ruturaj Gaikwad.
