WATCH: Deepak Chahar touches feet of MS Dhoni ahead of MI vs CSK IPL 2026 clash

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The “El Clásico” of the IPL is known for its high-octane drama, fierce competition, and a rivalry that splits the cricketing world down the middle. However, ahead of the 2026 showdown between Mumbai Indians and Chennai Super Kings at the Wankhede Stadium, it wasn’t a blistering cover drive or a toe-crushing yorker that stole the headlines. Instead, it was a simple, silent gesture of traditional respect that reminded fans why cricket is often called the “gentleman’s game.”

As the floodlights flickered to life during a pre-match practice session, Mumbai Indians’ pacer Deepak Chahar took a break from his drills to cross the imaginary border between the two camps. Approaching MS Dhoni, his longtime mentor and former captain, Chahar didn’t opt for a modern handshake or a casual “high-five.” Instead, he bent down to touch Dhoni’s feet—a traditional Indian mark of respect for a teacher or an elder.

The cameras caught the exchange in high definition, but it was the raw emotion behind the act that resonated. For Chahar, who blossomed into a world-class swing bowler under Dhoni’s watchful eye at CSK, the change in jersey color hasn’t altered the bond of a protégé and his “Thala.”

While the gesture was solemn, the reaction from MSD was vintage “Captain Cool.” Known for his dry wit, Dhoni was spotted laughing as he pulled Chahar into a warm embrace. Dhoni jokingly called out the cameraman trailing Chahar, teasingly suggesting that they couldn’t have a “real talk” with a lens in their faces.

“Tum aya.. sath me camera leke aaya… bhagao isko,” Dhoni jokingly said.

Cameraman be like… chalo theek hai 🫠

— Mumbai Indians (@mipaltan) April 22, 2026

Also READ: IPL 2026: Ravichandran Ashwin explains why Priyansh Arya is ahead of Ayush Mhatre and Vaibhav Suryavanshi

While there is no official confirmation from the CSK management yet, all signs point to Dhoni finally playing his game of the season. Notably, for the first time this season, Dhoni was seen practicing his wicketkeeping drills at the Wankhede Stadium on Tuesday night. He kept wickets for about 30 minutes, looking sharp and attempting quick stumpings. He also batted for approximately 30 minutes in the nets, facing fast bowlers like Matt Henry and Jamie Overton. There is also a speculation that he could be utilized as an Impact Player to manage his physical workload given he is returning from a calf strain.

Also READ: 3 potential replacements for injured Ayush Mhatre amid CSK’s struggling campaign in IPL 2026