The legendary India captain MS Dhoni isn't done playing yet. Dhoni is preparing for the Indian Premier League (IPL) extravaganza for the 19th straight season. To don the yellow, he is putting in the hard yards in the nets at JSCA International Stadium which is approximately 10km away from his residence in Ranchi.
As per a report by TOI, the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) legend has been coming to the stadium for two months, following a strict routine and often heads to the centre pitch when its available.
"His routine has been fixed for the last two months. He comes to the stadium at 1:30 pm, hits the gym for an hour, then pads up and does power-hitting training in the nets for two hours. If the centre wicket is available and no match is happening, he also does match simulations. Mahi signs out after a swimming session for another half an hour. He leaves the complex at 6 pm," a JSCA official told the English daily.
"He is just doing the Mahi things that he has done all his life — working hard."
44-year-old Dhoni will be playing under the leadership of Ruturaj Gaikwad in IPL 2026. Gaikwad had been ruled out of previous season due to an injury and Dhoni took over the reigns again.
“MS has told us that he will be available for the next season,” CSK CEO Kasi Viswanathan confirmed ahead of the retention announcement.
Major changes expected in CSK squad
Meanwhile, CSK are looking for a major revamp. As per reports, they are set to acquire Rajasthan Royals (RR) skipper Sanju Samson’s services by giving them veteran all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja. With Samson expected to don the yellow, CSK seem to be preparing for life after Dhoni.
While Ravichandran Ashwin has retired, CSK may look to release a few prominent players to free up their purse for the mini-auction. The likes of Devon Conway and Rachin Ravindra may be put in the auction again. CSK may also look for major changes in their squad featuring Indian players after finishing at the bottom of the table last season.