IPL 2026: ‘Nobody is missing MS Dhoni'- Ex-India captain tears into CSK management
Krishnamachari Srikkanth slammed Chennai Super Kings management for misleading fans about MS Dhoni's fitness throughout IPL 2026. He accused the franchise of creating false hope with repeated suggestions of Dhoni's imminent return, despite him missing the entire season due to injury. Srikkanth urged for transparency, stating fans were prepared for the Dhoni era's end.
Former India captain Krishnamachari Srikkanth has strongly criticised the Chennai Super Kings management over the handling of MS Dhoni’s fitness during IPL 2026, accusing the franchise of misleading supporters throughout the season. Speaking on his YouTube channel after CSK’s crushing 89-run defeat to Gujarat Titans, Srikkanth said the constant uncertainty surrounding Dhoni’s availability created false hope among fans. The former chief selector took aim at captain Ruturaj Gaikwad, head coach Stephen Fleming and the support staff for repeatedly suggesting the veteran wicketkeeper could return soon despite him missing the entire campaign.
“Before the season started, they said he has got a leg injury and that they are hoping to have him soon,” Srikkanth said. “Fleming also sang the same song, Ruturaj Gaikwad also sang the same: ‘He might be ready for the next match’. And then before the match, CSK will have a video of Dhoni training to show the fans and hint he is fit and he might play.
” Dhoni was initially ruled out because of a calf injury suffered before the tournament. While the injury was expected to keep him sidelined briefly, reports later mentioned a thigh strain and eventually suggestions emerged that he was being rested due to team balance concerns. Despite the uncertainty, CSK never officially confirmed that Dhoni would miss the entire season.
The veteran batter also did not travel with the squad for away fixtures and was seen only during CSK’s final home game at Chepauk, where he participated in the customary lap of honour. Even then, speculation about a comeback continued. Ironically, after CSK’s final league game, Gaikwad fuelled more speculation when he responded to broadcaster Graeme Swann’s question on Dhoni’s future by saying: “You will know next year.