Despite MSD's growing age, recurring injuries, and constant retirement speculation, that bond with the CSK fans never seemed to fade over the years.
Dhoni, 44, couldn't play a single game in this edition due to a leg injury but Simons said he impressed in the nets with his clean striking.
Despite much speculation, there has been no official statement by CSK team management about Dhoni's return date
MS Dhoni has been on the sidelines since the start of IPL 2026 due to a calf strain injury
With CSK still in contention for a playoff spot, Dhoni's fitness status continues to be closely monitored
Ravichandran Ashwin has rated MS Dhoni's wicketkeeping as the finest he has experienced, saying he hasn't seen "anyone else" operate like the former India captain behind the stumps to spinners.
The form of skipper Gaikwad and the inconsistency of the middle order and spinners are some of the reasons why CSK has been trailing so far in the points table
This high-profile IPL 2026 encounter at the Wankhede Stadium saw MI winning the toss and choosing to bowl first.
Dhoni has resumed light training with the squad; the star batter is yet to reach full match fitness
The 44-year-old has been undergoing rehabilitation for a calf muscle strain, and indications are that he may require at least another week before being considered for selection
Dhoni has missed only six games in IPL for CSK and in those six games, the Chennai-based franchise has been on the losing end five times
"MS Dhoni is currently undergoing rehabilitation for a calf strain. As a result, he is likely to miss the first two weeks of TATA IPL 2026," CSK said in an official statement.
Former Indian skipper Virat Kohli leads the list of highest run scorers in IPL with 8,661 runs, while David Warner, with 6,565 runs, leads the table for overseas batters
Chennai Super Kings will take on Rajasthan Royals in their opening match of IPL 2026 on March 30
Their experience under pressure, leadership skills, and ability to guide younger teammates make them invaluable. Here's a look at the top five oldest players set to feature in IPL 2026.
he evening blended cricket with entertainment, highlighted by an electrifying musical performance from A. R. Rahman, making it a perfect curtain-raiser for IPL 2026.
Uthappa indicated that Dhoni may not have a major on-field presence throughout the season and could instead contribute more from a guiding role within the squad
In IPL 2025, Dhoni often walked in during the final stages, when matches were already slipping away
MS Dhoni has not kept wickets in only eight IPL matches across the 2008 and 2009 seasons for Chennai Super Kings
CSK CEO Kasi Viswanathan, during the announcement of the event, said the function is intended as a formal season launch and a celebration of the franchise's long-standing connection with its fans