MS Dhoni Fit to Return? Why CSK Benched Him Despite Being Available for IPL 2026 Matches

MS Dhoni was available for Chennai Super Kings' last two IPL 2026 matches against Lucknow Super Giants but chose not to feature in order to avoid disrupting the team combination, according to sources close to the development.

Questions around Dhoni's availability had intensified after he missed back-to-back fixtures during a crucial phase of CSK's playoff push. However, fitness reportedly was not the primary concern.

The former CSK captain was seen actively participating during practice sessions and even kicking a football after recovering from his ankle issue, indicating that he was physically fit enough to return if required.

Sources suggest Dhoni himself felt the existing combination was functioning well and did not want his inclusion to unsettle the balance of the side midway through a must-win stretch.

CSK managed to win both games against Lucknow Super Giants, keeping their playoff hopes alive heading into the final phase of the league stage.

Will MS Dhoni return for remaining IPL matches?

Despite the resurgence, Chennai's qualification scenario remains complicated. The five-time champions still need favourable results elsewhere and could eventually require net run rate to come into play.

If CSK win only one of their remaining two matches against Sunrisers Hyderabad and Gujarat Titans, they would also need Punjab Kings to lose all their remaining fixtures to stay alive in the playoff race. Two defeats, meanwhile, would officially eliminate them from contention.

There had earlier been speculation that Dhoni's calf problem had resurfaced and could potentially rule him out for the rest of the season. However, sources maintain that the veteran wicketkeeper-batter remained available and the decision was largely tactical.

"If he is ready to play the last games, he has to be convinced that his presence can make a difference to Chennai Super Kings' chances of qualifying for the playoffs," a source said.

Whether Dhoni returns before the end of IPL 2026 now remains uncertain and could depend entirely on CSK's playoff equation over the next few days.

The bigger long-term question, however, continues to revolve around his future beyond this season.

While retirement speculation has followed Dhoni for several years, CSK's management is understood to be fully open to having him continue for another campaign if he chooses to do so - especially considering he has not played a single match this season so far.