Has MS Dhoni Resumed Net Practice in Ranchi for IPL 2026?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- MS Dhoni has resumed practice for IPL 2026.
- He continues to play for Chennai Super Kings at 44.
- Dhoni is a pivotal figure in CSK's leadership group.
- He aims to improve on last season's performance.
- Dhoni is celebrated as one of the greatest in IPL history.
Ranchi, Jan 24 (NationPress) The former Indian cricket captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni has kicked off his training for the forthcoming Indian Premier League 2026. At the age of 44, he is set to don the jersey of Chennai Super Kings for the 17th time. A video released by the Jharkhand State Cricket Association on their social media channels shows him padded up and practicing in the nets.
JSCA expressed their pride in Dhoni, captioning their Instagram post, “Look who is back. Pride of JSCA: Mahendra Singh Dhoni.”
In the video, Dhoni is seen conversing with JSCA secretary Saurabh Tiwary as he prepares for his practice session.
Having retired from international cricket in 2020, Dhoni continues to play in the IPL, representing his cherished CSK.
As one of the most pivotal players in the CSK lineup, Dhoni is a key figure in the leadership team, having led the team to five championship titles.
Last season was challenging for CSK as they finished last in the points standings, managing to win only four out of fourteen matches.
Dhoni's own performance was underwhelming during the season, scoring just 196 runs in 13 innings at an average of 24.50 and a strike rate of 135.17, with a highest score of 30*. He also captained CSK in the absence of Gaikwad due to injury.
Despite the struggles, Dhoni remains one of the greatest batters in IPL history, amassing 5,439 runs in 278 matches and 242 innings with an average of 38.80, a strike rate of 137.45, and 24 fifties, achieving a top score of 84*.
A modern legend in Indian cricket, the wicketkeeper-batter has captained India across all formats. He is a recipient of prestigious awards such as Padma Bhushan (2018), Padma Shri (2009), and the Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award (2008). Dhoni represented India from 2004 to 2019, leading the team to victory in the T20 World Cup in 2007 and the ODI World Cup in 2011.