Set to feature for the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) for the 17th time, Dhoni was spotted batting in the nets in a video shared by the Jharkhand State Cricket Association (JSCA) on its social media platforms.
Chennai Super Kings captain MS Dhoni during the Indian Premier League (IPL) cricket match between Gujarat Titans and Chennai Super Kings in Ahmedabad on Sunday, May 25, 2025. (Photo: IANS/Siddharaj Solanki)
Fan favourite and former India captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni has begun preparations for the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 season. Set to feature for the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) for the 17th time, Dhoni was spotted batting in the nets in a video shared by the Jharkhand State Cricket Association (JSCA) on its social media platforms.
JSCA hailed Dhoni as their pride, captioning the Instagram post: “Look who is back. Pride of JSCA: Mahendra Singh Dhoni.”
Advertisement
Advertisement
View this post on Instagram
In the clip, the 44-year-old can be seen chatting with JSCA secretary Saurabh Tiwary before padding up and getting into his net session.
Dhoni retired from international cricket in 2020 but has continued to represent CSK in the IPL. One of the most influential figures in the franchise’s history, Dhoni remains a core member of the leadership group and has led CSK to five IPL titles during his captaincy tenure.
The five-time champions endured a disappointing IPL 2025 campaign, finishing 10th for the first time in franchise history. CSK managed just four wins from 14 matches, ending the season with eight points and a net run rate of -0.647.
Ruturaj Gaikwad began the season as captain but was ruled out midway due to injury on April 10, prompting Dhoni to take over the captaincy for the remainder of the tournament. Dhoni’s individual form was also below his usual standards, as the veteran finisher scored 196 runs in 13 innings at an average of 24.50 and a strike rate of 135.17, with a highest score of 30*.
Despite the lean season, Dhoni remains one of the finest batters in IPL history. He has amassed 5,439 runs in 278 matches at an average of 38.80 and a strike rate of 137.45, including 24 half-centuries, with a best score of 84*.
A modern-day legend of Indian cricket, the wicketkeeper-batter led India across all three formats and played a pivotal role in historic triumphs, including the 2007 T20 World Cup and the 2011 ODI World Cup.
Dhoni is a recipient of the Padma Bhushan (2018), Padma Shri (2009), and the Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award (2008).
Advertisement
