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MS Dhoni’s much awaited return to the Chennai Super Kings playing XI in IPL 2026 was stretched until their final league match in Ahmedabad.

The five-time champions were officially eliminated after a crushing defeat at the hands of Gujarat Titans at the Narendra Modi Stadium, bringing a heartbreaking end to a season that initially looked like a comeback campaign for the side.

However, there is still no clarity among fans over whether MS Dhoni will return for the next season or if this could be the end of a beautiful journey for a cricketing and IPL legend.

Eric Simons opens up on MS Dhoni’s future with Chennai Super Kings

Meanwhile, CSK bowling coach Eric Simons has finally shared his thoughts on Dhoni’s future and made it clear that the final decision will completely rest with the veteran wicketkeeper-batter himself.

“He has hit the ball so well. He obviously had a leg injury which made it very difficult for him to run,” Simons explained while addressing the media after CSK’s elimination.

“Only MS Dhoni will make that decision,” says CSK bowling coach

Simons further added that MS Dhoni alone will decide whether he is ready to continue playing in IPL 2027 and stressed that the legendary cricketer would always prioritise the team’s best interests before taking such a massive call.

“But only MS will know and MS will make the decision about when he’s ready and when he’s right. 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,” Simons added.

CSK's campaign ends in disappointment despite high expectations

CSK entered IPL 2026 with renewed hope after a disappointing 2025 season, with several high-profile trade exchanges and expensive buys making headlines across the cricketing fraternity before the tournament began.

Meanwhile, Dhoni suffered a calf injury ahead of the season, which ruled him out for the initial two weeks of IPL 2026. CSK’s campaign then got off to a disastrous start with three consecutive defeats, dealing a massive blow to their momentum and playoff hopes early in the tournament.

Dhoni’s delayed return further extended the uncertainty around the side as CSK struggled to find consistency during crucial stages of the competition. Although they attempted to somehow pull off a comeback in the second half of the season, their final three defeats in succession eventually became the biggest setback and officially ended their title hopes.

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