MS Dhoni's return not on for IPL 2026? Ashwin's post sends CSK fans in panic mode
Ravichandran Ashwin's cryptic post has cast fresh doubt over MS Dhoni's return for Chennai Super Kings' home game against Sunrisers Hyderabad. The message has stirred anxiety among fans as Chennai juggle fitness concerns, team balance and playoff pressure.
Former cricketer Ravichandran Ashwin has sent Chennai Super Kings fans panicking with his latest post on X (formerly Twitter), seemingly implying that MS Dhoni's return might not happen in their final home game of the season against Sunrisers Hyderabad on Monday, May 18.
In his post he keeps it very vague, leaving it to the interpretation of the reader. He said," Not happening today! In 2027? May be. Don't think any batting changes will happen. Akeal Hosein in?"
Fans on social media reacted in many ways. Some questioned if this was the last we saw of MS Dhoni in the IPL, others suggesting that the winning combination should be prioritised considering their chances of making it to the playoffs. There's another school of thought which suggests that Akeal Hosein should be the one starting to give CSK the best chance of winning as well.
WHY ALL THE CHATTER ABOUT MS DHONI?
For very good reason, considering the talks on social media ahead of the game, MS Dhoni's return has been the talk of the town. He has been seen training as well ahead of the game.
But this is not the first time he had been seen training. He had been training for quite some time and visuals from the broadcasters was also present. But he never played a game this season.
Dhoni's availability was limited due to a lingering calf strain. He had made a significant recovery but his injury flared up just as he was building up for a return. In addition, Chennai's resurgence later in the season likely prompted the legendary wicketkeeper to take it easy considering he did not want to disturb the winning combination as well.
CSK's PLAYOFF HOPES?
Chennai have two games left in the season and can get up to a maximum of 16 points. But they would also want both Punjab Kings and the Rajasthan Royals to lose their remaining games to ensure they have the best chance of making it to the playoffs.
Chennai play their final home game against the Sunrisers Hyderabad and will conclude their league stage against Gujarat Titans in Ahmedabad on May 21.
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