Chennai Super Kings veteran MS Dhoni continues to stay away from matchday travel despite actively training with the squad during the ongoing Indian Premier League 2026 season. While fans eagerly await his return to the playing XI, the experienced wicketkeeper-batter has chosen a low-profile approach on game days.
Speaking ahead of CSK’s clash with Mumbai Indians at the MA Chidambaram Stadium, batting coach Michael Hussey revealed the reasoning behind Dhoni’s decision. According to him, Dhoni prefers not to accompany the team to the stadium to avoid unnecessary attention that could shift focus away from the players involved in the match.
Hussey explained that Dhoni was concerned about becoming the center of attention if he attended matches without playing. With cameras likely to follow him and fans reacting strongly to his presence, the situation could unintentionally divert the team’s concentration. To prevent this, Dhoni has deliberately chosen to remain away on matchdays, prioritizing team performance over personal visibility.
Despite his absence at the venue, Dhoni remains deeply involved. He has been closely monitoring matches and actively participating in training sessions, offering guidance and sharing his vast experience with teammates. His presence during practice continues to boost morale and provide valuable insights to the squad.
The former India captain is currently recovering from a calf injury, which has delayed his return. Hussey mentioned that Dhoni is making steady progress, especially in regaining his running ability, which is crucial for match situations. While his batting and wicketkeeping skills remain sharp, the focus is on ensuring he is fully fit to handle the physical demands of competitive play.
There is growing optimism within the CSK camp that Dhoni could make his comeback soon, possibly in the upcoming fixtures. However, the final call rests with Dhoni himself, as the team management continues to monitor his recovery carefully.