Dhoni’s Return Remains Uncertain

Questions surrounding Mahendra Singh Dhoni have taken a different shape this Indian Premier League season, as the focus has shifted from his long-term future to a more immediate concern: whether he will feature at all in the current tournament.

Dhoni has remained one of the most closely followed figures in Indian cricket for years, with attention extending beyond his performances on the field to his public appearances and personal life. His wife, Sakshi Dhoni, has also occasionally attracted public attention during cricket events.

During the semi-final of the recent ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, Sakshi was seen reacting enthusiastically to what appeared to be a catch from a “bump ball”, a moment that quickly circulated among viewers.

In March, Sakshi posted an Instagram story with the caption: “Returning to Ranchi after 75 days.” The post prompted Dhoni’s supporters to speculate that he would remain with his franchise throughout the full Indian Premier League season, with his family expected to stay alongside him during that period.

However, Dhoni and his family did not subsequently return to Ranchi, and the assumptions made by supporters appeared to align with that timeline. Despite more than half of the current IPL season having passed, Dhoni has still not appeared on the field even once.

A calf muscle injury has kept him away from competitive action. Before the tournament began, it had already been announced that Dhoni would miss at least the opening two weeks because of the injury. The IPL, which began on 28 March, has now moved through April and into May, yet there has been no confirmed update regarding his return date.

Mike Hussey, batting coach of Chennai Super Kings, provided the latest assessment on Friday. Speaking to reporters, Hussey said Dhoni’s primary issue is currently related to running between the wickets.

Hussey explained that Dhoni is capable of batting and wicketkeeping, but uncertainty remains over whether he can sustain the level of running required for quick singles and doubles, particularly in the closing stages of an innings.

He stated: “I know he is trying to increase his running speed, and that is the main barrier at the moment. He can bat and keep wickets, but it needs to be confirmed whether he can consistently manage one or two runs late in the innings.”

The former Australian cricketer added that Dhoni would only make himself available once he fully regains confidence in his leg.

Hussey also addressed why Dhoni has not been visible during Chennai’s matches despite reportedly doing some light practice. According to him, Dhoni prefers not to divert attention from the team, as his presence at the venue would inevitably draw cameras and spectators, potentially adding unnecessary pressure.

Recently, Dhoni completed an extended net session, where he reportedly spent a long period batting and striking the ball powerfully enough to send deliveries into the stands, requiring stadium staff to retrieve them.

During the same session, he was also seen inspecting Hardik Pandya’s bat and spending time in conversation with Kieron Pollard.

Every IPL season typically brings renewed discussion over Dhoni’s future. In previous years, the question centred on whether he would return for another season. This year, however, the discussion has shifted to whether he will be able to participate in the current campaign at all.