Ranchi: Former Indian captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni, who has retired from all forms of international cricket and only plays in the Indian Premier League (IPL), is gearing up for IPL 2026 with rigorous practice sessions. Ahead of the new season, Dhoni has been focusing on staying in peak form, both physically and with the bat.
The 44-year-old was recently seen at the Jharkhand State Cricket Association (JSCA) Stadium in Ranchi, taking part in intense net practice. A video shared by his IPL franchise, Chennai Super Kings (CSK), shows Dhoni executing flawless shots, including defensive strokes, backfoot punches, and leg glances, with the ball consistently hitting the middle of the bat. This demonstrates that Dhoni’s reflexes remain as sharp as ever.
CSK captioned the video on their Instagram handle: “Watching him bat every time is like an invitation. Superfans, you know what time this is!” The footage was originally shot by JSCA and later shared by the franchise.
CSK Looks to Bounce Back After a Poor Season
CSK had a disappointing IPL last season, winning only 4 out of 14 matches and finishing at the bottom of the points table. Dhoni scored 196 runs in 13 innings at an average of 24.50 and a strike rate of 135.17, with his highest score being 30 not out. He also stepped in as captain mid-season after Ruturaj Gaikwad was injured. While Gaikwad has resumed captaincy, Dhoni remains CSK’s marquee player.
Over his IPL career, Dhoni has played 278 matches, scoring 5,439 runs in 242 innings at an average of 38.80 and a strike rate of 137.45, including 24 fifties, with a highest score of 84.
Chasing the Sixth IPL Title
CSK, which has already won five IPL titles, is aiming for its sixth this season. The franchise strengthened its squad by acquiring wicketkeeper-batsman Sanju Samson from Rajasthan Royals through a trade deal. Ruturaj Gaikwad has also shown excellent form in domestic cricket, including a one-day international century for India and strong performances in the Vijay Hazare Trophy and against South Africa A.
The team’s young talent, including Dewald Brevis, Ayush Mahatre, and Urvil Patel, also adds depth. CSK made headlines in the IPL auction by signing Uttar Pradesh all-rounder Prashant Veer and Rajasthan wicketkeeper-batsman Kartik Sharma for a record ₹14.2 crore each, making them the most expensive uncapped players in IPL history. These youngsters are being considered key to CSK’s future.
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