MS Dhoni has not played a single game for CSK in IPL 2026.
Harbhajan added that the former captain of CSK might return for the 2027 season if he doesn't play on Monday to fulfill his promise.
Due to a calf injury, Dhoni has missed all of this season's CSK games. However, with CSK scheduled to play Sunrisers Hyderabad in Chennai on Monday, rumors of a potential farewell appearance have resurfaced.
Given the uncertainties surrounding the future of the former India captain, Harbhajan acknowledged the significance of the occasion while reflecting on Dhoni's long-standing relationship with Chennai.
“Look, he had said earlier that he would like to play his final match for Chennai at Chennai's ground. And now that time has come — this is the last match in Chennai. It's possible that we may see Thala playing on Monday for the last time, and maybe this Chennai crowd will also be watching him play for the final time. And if he doesn't play, then it means he'll come back again next year. Then he'll say, ‘Next year, you'll see me playing my last match. ' You never know with him, but hopefully he will play,” Harbhajan said on JioHotstar.
Harbhajan then presented a hilarious yet sincere message to his former teammate, pushing him to take the field once again for the spectators.
“Brother, just play tomorrow, Dhoni; please play. Otherwise, I'll come to your Chennai, and if needed, I'll drag you onto the ground myself and ask you to play,” he said.
MS Dhoni has also not come to the ground for CSK’s matches, though he has been on the ground for practice and net sessions. However, with reports of him coming to the Chepauk for the SRH game, supporters are expected to turn up in huge numbers, hoping to catch a glimpse of “Thala” in CSK colors again.
After winning the IPL 2021 title, Dhoni had himself stated that he wanted to end his playing career in Chennai in front of the CSK fans.
(IANS inputs)