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Mahendra Singh Dhoni has reportedly returned to Ranchi on the day of Chennai Super Kings` final league match against Gujarat Titans. According to a report by ESPNcricinfo, the legendary former skipper has already reached his hometown and will only return to the squad if CSK manages to defy the mathematical odds and qualify for the playoffs.
This decision aligns with Dhoni`s pattern this season, as he has consistently avoided travelling for away fixtures. His only exception was a solitary road trip to Lucknow earlier this month.
CSK batting coach Mike Hussey shed light on Dhoni`s absence from the crucial Ahmedabad clash, revealing that the veteran has sustained a fresh, painful thumb injury.
This explanation clarifies why Dhoni was seen with heavy taping on his thumb during CSK`s recent home game against Sunrisers Hyderabad, notably the only match this entire IPL 2026 season where he actively stepped out onto the field at Chepauk.
For the CSK fans, Dhoni’s departure marks a practical end to a season where he unfortunately could not contribute on the pitch. Sidelined initially by a calf injury sustained right before the tournament opener, and now hampered by the thumb issue, Dhoni has not played a single match in IPL 2026.
While he remained a supportive figure in the dugout during home games, he spent those matches in training apparel rather than the matchday yellow jersey. The emotional narrative surrounding his potential retirement reached a peak earlier this week at the M.A. Chidambaram Stadium.
Following CSK`s five-wicket loss to Sunrisers Hyderabad, the team completed their traditional lap of appreciation to thank the local fans. Despite his injuries, Dhoni joined his teammates on the field to wave to the crowd, creating an atmosphere that felt very much like a silent farewell.
Chennai Super Kings have struggled this season in the IPL
CSK have had a poor IPL season, which looks set to end in disappointment. The 5-time champions are set to miss out on the playoff spots again after a poor start to the tournament.
CSK travel to GT for the last game of their season, hoping for a win and other results to go their way.
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