MS Dhoni of Chennai Super Kings playing a shot during a practice session. (PTI photo)

Chennai: Like Chennai Super Kings As we prepare for our final home match of IPL 2026 against Sunrisers Hyderabad on Monday, one question has completely clouded the preparations – will MS Dhoni play in Chepauk?The MA Chidambaram Stadium has been at the center of growing anticipation ever since Dhoni’s subtle but interesting training routine on the eve of the match, with fans looking for every possible clue about his availability. “Not happening today!”: Ashwin drops selection bombHowever, former India spinner Ravichandran Ashwin was seen throwing cold water on these speculations with a candid social media post, which instantly went viral and intensified the debate over Dhoni’s role.“Not happening today! In 2027? Maybe. Don’t think there will be any change in batting. Akeal Hosein?” Ashwin posted this ahead of CSK’s last home match of the season against SRH.The timing of the post created a new wave of discussion, with fans interpreting it as a clear indication that Dhoni may not be included in the playing eleven. This also started a fresh conversation about his future.Adding further fuel to this discussion, CSK’s own social media activity increased the speculations. The franchise urged fans to stay for the traditional “lap of honour” after the match, a message that quickly turned into retirement discussion online.“It’s time to pay you back, superfan. Stop by and be a part of our annual ritual – the Lap of Honor!” CSK posted before the Chepauk match. Net session raised hope amid confusionDhoni’s match-eve routine added another layer to the mystery, reports the Indian Express. A padded-up Dhoni was seen taking to the indoor nets without a trainer for the first time in several weeks at 6:30 pm.After light stretching, he spent time in the nets for about 30 minutes, facing throwdowns and spinners, even crossing the boundary several times before returning to the dressing room by 7:30 pm.Dhoni’s availability remains the biggest talking point of CSK’s season. He missed matches due to injury concerns and was subsequently dropped from selection considerations to maintain balance within the eleven.However, the uncertainty is fueling anticipation, especially as CSK is still mathematically in contention for the playoffs. Demand for tickets has soared ahead of the match, with Chepauk expected to be packed out for what could be one of the most emotional nights of the season.Ashwin has increased the intrigueIn another comment that kept the debate alive, Ashwin had earlier suggested that Dhoni has been fit for some time and may still feature, contrary to his latest post.He had said, “I feel that there is a good possibility of MS Dhoni playing against Sunrisers Hyderabad.”