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While fans have been understanding of MS Dhoni's absence from CSK's playing XI due to his ongoing recovery from a calf injury, many were puzzled by his complete absence from the stadium during match days in the ongoing IPL 2026. This unusual move by the legendary wicketkeeper-batter sparked curiosity until Chennai Super Kings' batting coach, Michael Hussey, finally clarified the situation.
Michael Hussey revealed that Dhoni’s absence from the sidelines during IPL 2026 matches has been a deliberate choice. Hussey explained that the legendary former captain wanted to avoid becoming a distraction for the squad. Dhoni was reportedly concerned that his presence would cause the focus of the cameras, the crowd, and the media to shift away from the players on the field.
ALSO READ: Michael Hussey ends suspense on MS Dhoni's availability for CSK vs MI clash, says 'he’ll be back...'
Distraction was the reason behind Dhoni's absence from the stadium: Hussey
According to Hussey, Dhoni preferred the team to carry out their responsibilities without the added external pressure that his high-profile presence often brings. By staying away from the dugout, he hoped to ensure that the spotlight remained entirely on the team’s performance and the strategic execution of the current playing XI.
The veteran wicketkeeper-batter has yet to feature in a single match this season after sustaining a calf muscle injury during the pre-season training camp. Hussey offered these insights while addressing reporters in Chennai, just ahead of the team's highly anticipated home clash against the Mumbai Indians at the MA Chidambaram Stadium.
"He's such a team-oriented guy, MS Dhoni. He always wants what's best for the team, and he was worried that if he came, there'd be a bit too much of a distraction. Obviously, the cameras would be on him a lot. The crowd would be cheering for him and things like that. And he really wanted the team to just be able to go about their job, do our thing. Whether that's right or wrong, that's not my decision to sort of make, but that's the thinking behind with Dhoni not wanting to come to the matches," Hussey said at the pre-match press conference ahead of CSK versus MI clash.
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Michael Hussey provides big update on Dhoni's fitness
Despite having been with CSK camp since March and frequently appearing in practice matches and net sessions, many of which have gone viral on social media, Dhoni has yet to take the field in a competitive fixture this season. His absence from the playing XI has been a point of significant discussion, given his visible involvement in the team’s preparations leading up to the tournament.Hussey also provided a an update on Dhoni's fitness, noting that his recovery is progressing well. Hussey suggested that the former captain could be back in action as early as the next match or shortly thereafter.
"Hopefully, he'll be back as soon as possible. I don't know if it's tomorrow or maybe the next match after that, but he's progressing really well. I know he's been upping his running speeds, and that was probably the sticking point. I think we're very confident from a skill perspective with his batting and his wicketkeeping, but it was just making sure that he could maintain good running power, particularly towards the back end of an inning, where he's going to have to scan for those and twos. So as soon as he's got the confidence in his calf, then I'm sure he'll give it the tick to be ready to go," Hussey added.
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