Legendary Chennai Super Kings (CSK) legend MS Dhoni has been out of action since the start of the IPL 2026 season. The 44-year-old five-time IPL-winning captain for CSK had suffered a calf injury before the tournament began, and since then, he has been recovering and rehabbing.

The fans are yet to see MS Dhoni with the CSK contingent during their game days, as the legend has opted not to come to the venue with the team. However, Dhoni is always seen on the ground on training days and even bats and keeps in the nets.

But with CSK set to play their final home game against Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) on May 18, 2026, fans will be overjoyed as MS Dhoni has reportedly decided to turn up with the CSK team at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai.

Dhoni is reported to have sustained a new injury during a training session; therefore, it is unlikely he would participate in the match, even as an impact player.

The Indian Express reported that Dhoni hurt his thumb during a net session before the journey to Lucknow. He also chose to remain in Chennai even though his tickets were booked for the Lucknow game.

Dhoni batted in the nets for approximately 30 minutes on the eve of the match, displaying no signs of discomfort and hitting a couple of huge sixes. However, it is believed that he decided not to play in the game after the session since he is still not fully recovered.

Even if everything suggested that Dhoni would be an impact player for the game, it doesn't seem likely right now. At the conclusion of their last league game, Dhoni will be present and participate in the annual lap of honor.

MS Dhoni would’ve been the perfect alternate to Jamie Overton, who has been ruled out of IPL 2026 due to a thigh injury. But the latest injury setback to him might lead to CSK turning to Dian Forrester, their recruit.

With 12 points from as many matches, CSK needs to win its two remaining matches to qualify for the playoffs.