The Chennai Super Kings veteran MS Dhoni has returned home to Ranchi and is officially ruled out of today’s clash against Gujarat Titans at Ahmedabad. MS Dhoni has been constantly facing one issue or the other throughout the season and the chances of it being his last season is higher than ever. Ruturaj Gaikwad stated during the toss of the game against SRH that he could feature in the next game but again there’s no sign of CSK’s main man returning to the squad in IPL 2026.
This is the ultimate encounter for the men in yellow as with a loss they will be eliminated from the playoff race, if not they can just do enough to stay alive. But in all fairness of the game, it seems highly unlikely that CSK will qualify from here as they will be too reliant on the results of the other teams. The last factor of joy that CSK could have provided its fans was to see their idol playing and now, that possibility has been ruled out as well. Nonetheless, it will be a thrilling match as both teams will be in need of 2 points.
CSK’s playoff hopes hang by a thread as Dhoni’s absence fuels retirement rumours
All the fans were hoping to see Mahendra Singh Dhoni don the yellow kit for one last time and it seems that the moment has already passed. With the characteristics of MS Dhoni, we are well aware that he doesn’t like the limelight and he doesn’t want the narrative to be around him. The rumours are strengthening with every game as it seems like CSK are pulling off a false narrative to mislead the fans which could be a marketing stunt to attract fans as well.
"I can confirm he is not here with the team, but if we do happen to qualify, then he will definitely join back up with the team. He has got a bit of a sore thumb, so it is recovering nicely, but he would not be ready for this match. But hopefully, if we can manage to get through to the playoffs, then hopefully he will be alright," stated Michael Hussey.
Ruturaj Gaikwad and his men will be hoping to secure the two points at Ahmedabad and it will do their confidence a world of good considering how prolific GT can be in their home ground. Sanju Samson will be their key batter once again as if he can get going, then CSK will have a higher chance of winning the game. The toss will be one of the most important factors of the game as on most occasions, the team that has won the toss has ended up winning the match. The men in yellow will be keen on staying alive in the playoff race and they will be facing a daunting task in the fortress of Shubman Gill and his men.
