He hasn’t batted a single ball this IPL season, yet somehow, MS Dhoni is still the most talked-about man in the tournament.
As Chennai Super Kings prepare to face Sunrisers Hyderabad tonight, the cricket world isn’t debating tactics or top-order struggles. It’s asking one question only: Is Thala playing?
Dhoni has been sidelined since before the tournament began, nursing a calf injury from pre-season training. CSK confirmed he would miss the first five to six matches, and since then he’s been restricted to hotel stays and training sessions, though recent throwdown drills suggest he’s closing in on full fitness.
The biggest hint came on Thursday. Dhoni travelled with the squad to Hyderabad, his first away trip of the season, and the airport scenes were electric, with fans mobbing the team bus and chanting his name. In cricket circles, you don’t travel unless you’re close to playing.
Reports suggest his official return may be lined up for the Mumbai Indians fixture at Wankhede on April 23, though tonight is still very much on the table. CSK, however, are unlikely to rush him given his age and the long road ahead.
The match itself carries massive stakes, both SRH and CSK sit level on two wins and three losses, making it a virtual must-win. SRH come in full of confidence after a 57-run demolition of Rajasthan Royals, while CSK have leaned heavily on Sanju Samson’s heroics to stay afloat.
Whether Dhoni plays or not, his presence in Hyderabad has already made tonight unmissable.
