NEW DELHI: For the past few years, as the focus shifts to the Indian Premier League ahead of the retention list and auction, one name that always captures fans' imagination is none other than MS Dhoni. Having retired from international cricket in 2020, the former India captain continues to feature in the IPL, with constant speculation surrounding his future as a new season approaches.
However, Dhoni's fitness has become a concern recently. The former CSK skipper was seen limping on a few occasions last season and often batted lower down the order, restricting himself to just one or two overs at the crease.
But in what would have brought smiles to the faces of Dhoni's fans, Chennai Super Kings (CSK) CEO Kasi Viswanathan has confirmed that MS Dhoni will not retire from the IPL and will feature in the 19th season of the league. It will mark his 17th season with CSK and 19th overall in the IPL.
Since September, Dhoni has been leaving no stone unturned in his quest for full fitness ahead of IPL 2026. Despite battling age and injuries, he has been dedicating long hours to training, TimesofIndia.com reported.
MS Dhoni's rigorous training regime
For the past two months, Dhoni has been a regular visitor to the Jharkhand State Cricket Association (JSCA) International Stadium, located around 10 kilometres from his residence in Ranchi.
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"He is just doing the Mahi things that he has done all his life - working hard," a JSCA official told TimesofIndia.com.
"His routine has been fixed for the last two months. He comes to the stadium at 1:30 pm, hits the gym for an hour, then pads up and does power-hitting training in the nets for two hours. If the centre wicket is available and no match is happening, he also does match simulations. Mahi signs out after a swimming session for another half an hour. He leaves the complex at 6 pm," he added.
The 44-year-old led CSK last year in the absence of regular skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad, though the five-time champions endured a poor campaign, finishing at the bottom of the table.
Dhoni led the franchise to five IPL titles (2010, 2011, 2018, 2021 and 2023).
