Will MS Dhoni play CSK’s IPL 2026 match vs SRH in Chepauk tonight?

Notably, MS Dhoni hasn't featured in any CSK game so far in IPL 2026.

The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 is just getting exciting with each passing day as the teams fight for a spot in the final four with only a few games remaining now. However, the battle for the IPL 2026 playoffs spot remains between 7 teams now, in match 63, the five-time champions, Chennai Super Kings (CSK) will host the Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) in their final home game of the season at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai. 

While Chennai’s hope received a boost after Royal Challengers Bengaluru’s (RCB) win last night, they will look to get a win in both their remaining games in order to earn a qualification. But as they take the field tonight, the biggest question which arises is whether MS Dhoni play or not? Although the answer solely remains with the 44-year-old, a renowned journalist informed that the chances remain bleak. 

Taking to X, RevSportz journalist Rohit Juglan wrote, “MS Dhoni will come to the stadium today, but the chances of him playing the match are next to none (thumb injury). He will come to the ground for the Chennai fans.” Notably, the speculations of MS Dhoni featuring in CSK’s final home game of the season at Chepauk once again became the talk after he was seen training in the nets. 

MS Dhoni’s availability in IPL 2027

Although an answer to MS Dhoni playing in CSK vs SRH IPL 2026 match will be answered during the game on May 18, sources have also hinted on his possibility to appear in IPL 2027. While MS Dhoni playing another IPL edition has been an ever-going talk, Juglan in his post also added stating, “It’s possible he might play next season.”

CSK’s IPL 2026 playoffs race on cards

Speaking of the franchise, after a difficult start to the season, CSK have lived up to the expectation and are closing in on confirming their playoffs berth. Sitting at 5th place after RCB defeated Punjab Kings (PBKS), CSK will look to win their remaining two league stage fixtures and confirm a spot in the top 4 with 16 points. However, a defeat will only dent their playoffs fate, while depending on other team results to go in their favour.