MS Dhoni Ruled Out Again? Fresh Injury Update Shocks CSK Fans Before SRH Clash
Chennai Super Kings fans may not get to see MS Dhoni in action at Chepauk after fresh injury concerns ruled him out of the crucial IPL 2026 clash against Sunrisers Hyderabad. Reports suggest Dhoni suffered a thumb injury during training, while Sunil Gavaskar has also expressed doubts over a comeback.
May 18, 2026: The excitement among Chennai fans to watch MS Dhoni in action at Chepauk appears to have come to a disappointing end after fresh injury concerns ruled the veteran wicketkeeper-batter out of Chennai Super Kings’ final home game of the IPL 2026 season. Dhoni had already been sidelined earlier due to a calf strain, and now reports suggest that the 44-year-old has picked up another injury ahead of CSK’s crucial clash against Sunrisers Hyderabad on Monday.
The latest setback has come as a major disappointment for fans, especially with this being CSK’s final appearance at Chepauk this season. Supporters had been hoping for a surprise return from Dhoni, even if only as an Impact Player. However, recent developments have made that possibility highly unlikely.
According to a report by The Indian Express, Dhoni suffered a thumb injury during a net session before the Chennai Super Kings travelled to Lucknow for their previous fixture. Although the former CSK captain had initially booked tickets to travel with the squad, he later decided to remain in Chennai after the injury concern worsened. Sources close to the franchise suggest that Dhoni will not take the field against SRH as the team management does not want to risk aggravating the injury further.
Dhoni Likely to Join CSK’s Lap of Honour at Chepauk
While Dhoni may miss the match itself, the legendary cricketer is still expected to be present at the MA Chidambaram Stadium on Monday evening. Earlier, CSK had requested fans to remain in the stadium after the game for the team’s annual lap of honour ceremony. The tradition, followed by several sports teams across the world, allows players to thank supporters at the end of the home season.
The franchise had announced that players would take a lap around the ground after the match as a gesture of appreciation towards the fans who have supported them throughout the tournament. Dhoni, who has largely stayed away from matchday appearances this season due to fitness issues, is expected to participate in the ceremony despite not being available for selection.
His possible presence during the lap of honour is still expected to create a special atmosphere at Chepauk. For many fans, even a brief appearance from the CSK icon would be enough to make the evening memorable. Over the years, Dhoni has shared a strong emotional bond with Chennai supporters, and every appearance at the stadium continues to draw massive attention.
Thala Dharisanam at Chepauk? 💛#MSDhoni was spotted training ahead of #CSK’s last home game of the season! ⏳#TATAIPL Race to Playoffs 2026 👉 #CSKvSRH | MON, MAY 18, 6:30 PM pic.twitter.com/x5NaZxQefM
— Star Sports (@StarSportsIndia) May 17, 2026
Sunil Gavaskar Casts Doubt Over Dhoni’s Return
Former India captain Sunil Gavaskar has also expressed serious doubts over the possibility of Dhoni making a surprise return in such an important game. Speaking to JioStar ahead of the contest, Gavaskar said it would be extremely difficult for Dhoni to step directly into a high-pressure IPL match after remaining away from competitive cricket for such a long period.
Gavaskar pointed out that the match against SRH carries huge significance for CSK in the context of the playoff race. However, he believes Dhoni himself would not want to take a major risk at this stage of his career, especially while recovering from multiple injuries.
“The match against SRH is a crucial one for CSK. It is also their final home game at Chepauk this season, so naturally fans want to see MS Dhoni play. But he has not featured at all this season, and he has been away from competitive cricket for over a year. I do not think he would want to take such a risk,” Gavaskar said.
The former India skipper further added that CSK would need players who are already match-ready and in rhythm during such a crucial stage of the tournament. According to him, bringing in a player who has not played competitive cricket recently may not be the ideal decision in a must-win encounter.
Dhoni’s continued absence has remained one of the biggest talking points of IPL 2026. While fans had continued to hope for a fairytale return, the latest injury update now appears to have ended those expectations, at least for this season.