Speculation around MS Dhoni has been high over the last few days, with rumours spreading that the Chennai Super Kings legend could play his final IPL match when CSK take on Sunrisers Hyderabad on Monday, May 18.

The buzz increased further as Chennai are set to play their final home game of the season at M. A. Chidambaram Stadium, with a few high-profile attendees expected to be present. With social media flooded by claims that this could be Dhoni’s farewell appearance, fans have been eagerly waiting for one last glimpse of the former skipper in yellow.

Dhoni suffered a calf injury just before the season began and is yet to feature in a single game in IPL 2026. Still, multiple training videos and his presence with the squad during travel have kept the hopes alive that he may return before the season ends.

Ravichandran Ashwin post adds fresh twist to MS Dhoni speculation

Amid the rumours, Ravichandran Ashwin shared a cryptic post that quickly went viral. Although he did not directly mention Dhoni, the timing of the message led many to connect it with the ongoing speculation around the CSK icon.

The first line has sparked the biggest discussion. Many fans believe Ashwin may have hinted that Dhoni is not retiring this year and could continue into the next season. The phrase “In 2027? May be” has been read as a possible suggestion that Dhoni’s IPL farewell may happen next year, not in the current campaign.

The second line appears to suggest that CSK may not make any batting changes. Chennai’s batting order has looked solid and that could mean there is no immediate space to bring Dhoni into the playing XI, despite all the excitement around his possible return.

That has led to further discussion among fans, with many feeling that while Dhoni’s return would be emotional, CSK may still prioritise the current combination in such an important game.

The final line mentioning Akeal Hosein likely hints at a bowling adjustment. With conditions at Chepauk expected to assist spin, CSK may prefer adding another slow-bowling option instead.

Meanwhile, Chennai Super Kings will face a do-or-die contest against Sunrisers Hyderabad at Chepauk. CSK have six wins from 12 games and need a victory to stay alive in the playoff race.