"If he knows it is not right, he won't play" - CSK coach shares insight into MS Dhoni's IPL future

Published - 22 May 2026, 15:52 IST | Updated - 22 May 2026, 16:24 IST

MS Dhoni didn't play a single game during the 2026 edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL). He was struggling with a calf strain for most of the tournament before missing the last game due to a thumb injury.

The wicketkeeper-batter didn't travel with the team for most of their away games this season. He joined his team for a lap around the ground after the Chennai Super Kings' (CSK) last home game of the season. However, his ardent fans couldn't get to see his towering sixes and lightning-fast stumpings.

After the Super Kings crashed out of the tournament with an 89-run defeat to the Gujarat Titans at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on Thursday, May 21, bowling coach Eric Simmons was asked about Dhoni's future in the cash-rich league.

The 64-year-old said that Dhoni was hitting the ball very well during the net sessions during IPL 2026. He added that the former India captain will take a call on his own future, keeping in mind the best interests of the team.

"Are you seriously asking me that question?" (smiles). "Honestly, he has hit the ball so well. He had a leg injury which made it very difficult for him to run. So that's why he couldn't play. But, in terms of hitting the ball in the nets, he is hitting it as well as I have ever seen him hit it," Simmons said at the post-match press conference.

"But, I keep saying this. MS will know and he will only make the decision about when he is ready. If he knows it is not right, he won't play. But, if he feels it's right, he will. He will make a decision in the best interest of the team and not for himself as an individual," he explained.

Simmons admitted that it would be great to have Dhoni back in the squad next season because he brings immense knowledge of the game and calmness, which rubs off on his teammates.

"It would be great to have him playing. It has been great having him around the unit and have the opportunity to tap into all the knowledge and calmness," Simmons said.