"If CSK gets out of the tournament, then MS Dhoni might play": Ex-CSK star makes bold prediction

There has been significant debate and anticipation among Chennai Super Kings fans regarding when MS Dhoni will return to the playing XI. CSK have played eight matches in IPL 2026 so far, and Dhoni has yet to feature in a single game this season.

The 44-year-old Indian legend is still recovering from a persistent calf injury that was aggravated during a warm-up session at the start of the tournament. He was expected to return for CSK’s previous clash against the Gujarat Titans, but that did not materialize.

However, former CSK spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has now shared an interesting perspective on Dhoni’s return.

R. Ashwin drops a bold claim about MS Dhoni's return

Speaking on his YouTube channel, Ashwin suggested that Dhoni might only return to action once CSK are knocked out of the tournament. He explained that the team management is unlikely to take any risks while they are still in contention for the playoffs.

"If CSK gets out of the tournament, then MS Dhoni might play. CSK are still in the tournament, so why will they take the risk now? I still feel that CSK have a chance to qualify for the playoffs. But yeah, it is difficult," said Ashwin.

He further highlighted how CSK’s performances in recent matches have boosted their confidence.

"The way CSK have played in the last five matches, it has given them a little confidence. CSK's bowling is firing, if their batting fires, they can put together three wins on the bounce," he concluded.

Stephen Fleming's take on Dhoni's injury

The CSK head coach had earlier spoken about the challenges of Dhoni’s calf injury, explaining that rushing him back could worsen the situation and potentially rule him out for the remainder of the tournament.

"The calf is a tough one, though. If he takes off and rips it again, then he will be gone. We pushed it early, and in the warm-up game, he tweaked it again, it's my understanding. Since then, he has just been working hard to get some movement into it, but there was a setback, so it has taken longer than we thought."

Chennai Super Kings are now set to face Mumbai Indians in their next fixture on Saturday, May 2, at their home ground, the MA Chidambaram Stadium.