MS Dhoni Skips Ahmedabad Clash: Will He Return for IPL 2027?

A Major Absence in Ahmedabad

As the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) prepare for their high-stakes encounter against the Gujarat Titans at the Narendra Modi Stadium, one notable figure will be conspicuously missing from the dugout. MS Dhoni, the iconic talisman of the five-time champions, has made the decision to return to his home in Ranchi rather than accompany the team to Ahmedabad for the 14th clash of the current campaign.

This development follows his appearance at Chepauk during the team’s final home game of the season. According to reports, the 44-year-old will only consider rejoining the squad if the Chennai Super Kings successfully navigate the path to the IPL 2026 playoffs. Throughout this season, Dhoni has largely opted out of traveling for away fixtures, having made an exception only for a visit to Lucknow earlier this month.

The Injury Concern

Providing clarity on his absence, CSK batting coach Mike Hussey confirmed that the wicket-keeper star is currently sidelined due to a thumb injury. The injury was evident to eagle-eyed observers during the recent match against the Sunrisers Hyderabad, where Dhoni was spotted with a heavily taped thumb—a rare moment when he emerged on the field specifically to greet the fans.

This physical setback adds to an already frustrating season for the veteran. Having previously battled a lingering calf injury, the additional blow to his thumb has hampered his ability to participate in the 2026 edition of the league. While he has remained a part of the training setup, Dhoni has largely kept a low profile to ensure the media spotlight remains on the current squad’s performance rather than his personal narrative. His brief appearance during the post-match lap of honor at the M.A. Chidambaram Stadium was a poignant moment, serving as a gesture of gratitude toward the supporters who have stood by the franchise throughout a difficult year.

The Future: Will We See Him in 2027?

The uncertainty surrounding Dhoni’s future has sparked conversations among cricket legends. Following the loss to Sunrisers Hyderabad, Dhoni caught up with former teammate Suresh Raina. Raina, who has been vocal about his desire to see the legend continue, shared details of their conversation on Star Sports.

“I told him that his presence this year was like a missed call; it doesn’t count. He will have to come back next year,” Raina revealed. While Dhoni reportedly expressed concerns regarding his physical readiness, he remained open-minded when reminded of the unwavering affection and demand from his fanbase, stating he would give the prospect of playing in IPL 2027 some serious thought.

A Final Push for the Playoffs

For the Chennai Super Kings, the situation remains precarious. Sitting sixth in the standings with 12 points from 13 matches, the Men in Yellow face a must-win situation against Shubman Gill’s Gujarat Titans to keep their mathematical hopes of playoff qualification alive. Even with the odds stacked against them, the team is expected to approach the final group fixture with full intensity.

Should the results fall in their favor, cricket fans might get one final glimpse of the legend in the playoff stages. If not, this season may conclude with a silent end for one of the greatest careers in the history of the sport. As it stands, the focus for now remains on the upcoming clash in Ahmedabad, where the team hopes to honor the spirit of the campaign with a strong performance.