No curtain call for MS Dhoni? CSK coach breaks silence on retirement chatter, hints at what's next: 'You seriously asking me that?'

Chennai Super Kings’ IPL 2026 campaign has raised serious questions about the team’s future, with the biggest uncertainty surrounding MS Dhoni, who has yet to address his plans after missing the entire season due to a calf strain.

The former Indian skipper was seen travelling with the squad for Chennai's final home match but did not take the field, as captain Ruturaj Gaikwad revealed that he was not fully fit.

Following CSK’s last league fixture, bowling coach Eric Simons was asked the inevitable question about Dhoni’s future, leading to an amusing exchange.

'MS will decide when he's ready and right'

Coach Simons quipped, "Are you seriously asking me that question?" before elaborating on Dhoni’s training and the injury that kept him out.

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"Honestly, he has hit the ball so well. He obviously 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's hitting it as well as I've ever seen him hit it. But I keep saying this, only MS will know, and MS will make the decision about when he's ready and when he's right.

"And I tell you what, if he knows he's not, he won't play. But if he is right, he will. He'll make the decision in the best interest of the team and not for himself as an individual. But it will be great to have him playing. It's been great just having him around the unit and being someone to tap into for knowledge and calmness,” Simons said.

Read More | 'They ignored Dhoni completely': MS Dhoni and CSK to end 18-year-long association on bitter note?

CSK eliminated from another playoff race

CSK finished seventh in IPL 2026, marking the third consecutive year outside the playoffs. The last time they qualified, CSK lifted their fifth IPL title after defeating the Gujarat Titans in Ahmedabad.

This year, Chennai showed promise with a mid-season surge and securing crucial victories, but three consecutive losses derailed their momentum and ended their playoff hopes.

As speculation continues around Dhoni’s future, questions also remain about whether the franchise will undergo change ahead of the next season.