MS Dhoni and Deepak Chahar shared a heartwarming and characteristically witty reunion on April 21, 2026, ahead of the high-stakes MI vs CSK clash at Wankhede Stadium. Despite Chahar now playing for the Mumbai Indians following the 2025 mega auction, the bond between the former teammates remains as strong and playful as ever. Chahar approached his former captain during a practice session and touched Dhoni’s feet to seek his blessings before the match.Spotting a cameraman following Chahar, Dhoni jokingly remarked, "Tum aaya, saath mein camera leke aaya… bhagao isko" (You came, and you brought a camera along... get him out of here).

Dhoni added with a smirk that they wouldn't be able to talk freely if the cameras stayed, prompting Chahar to playfully shoo the cameraman away.This recent meet follows a viral Instagram Live from March 2026, where Chahar told Dhoni he was missing the team. Dhoni bluntly joked, "Mereko toh bilkul nahi aa rahi tumhari... bilkul mat aana" (I don't miss you at all... don't come at all). Deepak Chahar played for CSK for seven years under Dhoni's leadership before moving to Mumbai Indians for ₹9.25 crores. Fans continue to celebrate their "Cherry and Mahi" bond, which often involves Dhoni playfully scolding or "hitting" Chahar with a bat during post-match interactions.

Will MS Dhoni return for IPL-Classico?

Reports from April 22, 2026, suggest that MS Dhoni is likely to make his season debut in the "IPL Clasico" against the Mumbai Indians on Thursday, April 23, 2026. After missing the first six matches of IPL 2026 due to a calf strain, the legendary former captain has shown significant signs of recovery. On Tuesday night at Wankhede Stadium, Dhoni was seen wicketkeeping for 40 minutes and batting for roughly 30 minutes without visible discomfort.

For the second time recently, he has travelled with the squad for an away fixture, which typically signals a return to the playing XI.CSK currently 8th on the points table (2 wins, 4 losses), the team management is eager for his leadership and finishing depth.Former teammate R Ashwin has expressed high confidence that Dhoni will play, citing his presence in wicketkeeping drills.