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Over a month has passed since MS Dhoni, a key player for the Chennai Super Kings (CSK), has been sidelined due to a calf injury. His participation in the current IPL season remains uncertain, leading to ongoing speculation about his fitness.

The CSK retained Dhoni for INR 4 crore, anticipating this might be his final season in the Indian Premier League (IPL). Although there were rumors of his retirement after IPL 2025, CSK CEO Kasi Viswanathan confirmed that Dhoni would play at least one more season.

Impact of Dhoni's Absence

Fans were eager to see Dhoni back in action, but his injury has raised serious doubts about his return, especially as CSK approaches the crucial final phase of the league, where qualifying for the playoffs hinges on finishing in the top four.

No Clear Timeline for Return

Dhoni reportedly sustained his calf injury during a training session before CSK's opening match against the Rajasthan Royals in Guwahati. Initially ruled out for two weeks, there has been no official update on his recovery timeline.

He did not accompany the CSK squad to Guwahati and Bengaluru for matches against the Rajasthan Royals and Royal Challengers Bengaluru, opting to stay in Chennai for rehabilitation. However, he did travel to Hyderabad and Mumbai for games against the Sunrisers Hyderabad and Mumbai Indians.

Despite engaging in practice sessions, including batting and wicketkeeping drills, Dhoni has remained unavailable for selection in the CSK lineup, even after the expected recovery period.

Coaches Provide Mixed Messages

Speculation about Dhoni's fitness continues, with head coach Stephen Fleming mentioning that Dhoni aggravated his calf injury, further complicating his return. The lack of a definitive timeline has left fans anxious about his participation in the remaining IPL 2026 matches.

No one from the CSK coaching staff, including batting coach Mike Hussey, has provided a clear update on Dhoni's status, leaving supporters in suspense regarding his return.

Absence from Delhi Match

On May 3, CSK traveled to Delhi for a match against the Delhi Capitals, but Dhoni was absent from the squad. When questioned about his availability, bowling coach Eric Simmons stated that updates on Dhoni's condition were beyond his purview, emphasizing that Dhoni would return only when fully fit.

"The update on MS Dhoni is beyond my pay grade. He's not with us, but he's improving. He will be ready when he's ready," Simmons remarked.

Retirement Speculations Intensify

As days pass, doubts about Dhoni's return grow, with increasing speculation regarding his fitness and potential retirement. Fans, particularly CSK supporters, are divided, eagerly awaiting clarity on his future.

Social media platforms have seen a flurry of reactions, with some urging Dhoni to retire gracefully, while others express frustration over the lack of communication regarding his status. Many hope for a final farewell match, while some believe he has already played his last IPL game.

Current Standings of CSK

Currently, CSK sits in sixth place with four wins and five losses, totaling 8 points and a net run rate (NRR) of +0.005. If they manage to win four out of their remaining five matches, they could reach 16 points, enhancing their chances for a playoff spot, although qualification will also depend on net run rate and other match outcomes.