Chennai Super Kings’ Ruturaj Gaikwad, right, and MS Dhoni (PTI photo)

Chennai Super Kings‘The final home match of IPL 2026 against Sunrisers Hyderabad has created huge speculations about ms dhoni There could be a surprise comeback, but Sunil Gavaskar Cold water is poured on the possibility. MS Dhoni He has not featured in a single match this IPL season, with CSK confirming ahead of the tournament that he is recovering from a calf muscle strain. It was initially expected that a short rehabilitation period would be extended to the entire league stage, ruling him out of all CSK fixtures. Yet, with CSK having played their last home game in Chepauk and still alive in the playoff race, the emotional narrative around the potential attendance has intensified. This context is further strengthened by Dhoni’s earlier comments in 2021, when he had hinted that his final T20 could be in Chennai, adding to the emotions in an already high-stakes match. However, former India captain Sunil Gavaskar has strongly rejected any hopes of Dhoni returning for the match, insisting that the risk outweighs the feeling of winning the match.Speaking on JioStar, Sunil Gavaskar addressed the speculations about MS Dhoni’s possible return in CSK’s final home match against Sunrisers Hyderabad. “The match against SRH is important for CSK. It is their last home match in Chepauk, so naturally the fans want to see MS Dhoni playing,” Gavaskar said. However, he immediately highlighted Dhoni’s long absence and said, “But he has not performed at all this season. In fact, he has not played competitive cricket for over a year. So, I doubt he would want to take such a risk at this level.” He stressed the importance of match preparation, saying, “You need players who are match-fit and have been playing regularly for the last six weeks.” Gavaskar also underlined Dhoni’s team-first mentality, saying, “Dhoni is a complete team-man. “I don’t think he would want to disrupt the existing combination.”Concluding his thought, he clarified his stance: “I would be very surprised if he plays against SRH. It is a must-win match for CSK. A win keeps them alive in the playoff race. They have to win this match at all costs, and bringing in a player who has not played for over a year could be a gamble.” CSK’s playoff equation remains straightforward but challenging – two wins in their last two matches will take them to 16 points, keeping them firmly in the race, although qualification will still depend on other results. However, for now, Gavaskar’s assessment makes one thing clear: despite the sentiment, Dhoni’s return to Chepauk today is highly unlikely.