IPL 2026: MS Dhoni will decide his future, says CSK bowling coach Eric Simons

MS Dhoni (Pic: X/CSK)

Chennai Super Kings bowling coach Eric Simons said Mahendra Singh Dhoni alone will decide on his comeback, stressing that the veteran wicketkeeper-batter would only return if he feels fully fit and ready to contribute to the team.

When asked if CSK were hopeful of Dhoni's availability next season, Simons made it clear that the franchise would always support the Indian superstar.

"Are you seriously asking me that question? We always are," Simons said when asked if CSK are hopeful of Dhoni's availability next year.

"I mean, honestly, he has hit the ball so well. He obviously had a leg injury, which made it very difficult for him to run, so that's why he couldn't play. But in terms of hitting the ball in the nets, he's hitting it as well as I've ever seen him hit it. But I keep saying this, only MS will know, and MS will make the decision about when he's ready and when he's right," he added.

The former South Africa all-rounder said Dhoni would always prioritise the team's interest over personal milestones.

"And I tell you what, if he knows he's not, he won't play. But if he is right, he will. He'll make the decision in the best interest of the team and not for himself as an individual. But it will be great to have him playing. It's been great just having him around the unit and being someone to tap into for knowledge and calmness," he added.

Loss against Gujarat Titans knocks CSK out of the IPL

CSK's hopes of qualifying for the IPL 2026 playoffs came to an end following an 89-run defeat against GT at the Narendra Modi Stadium. In a must-win final league match for the five-time champions, CSK's bowling unit was thoroughly dismantled by the Titans' top order as they failed to put pressure on the GT openers.

Powerful half-centuries from Sai Sudharsan (84), Shubman Gill (64), and a blistering finish from Jos Buttler (57') propelled Gujarat to a massive total of 229/4. Chasing a mammoth target under pressure, Chennai's batting lineup collapsed entirely under the lights.

Despite a fighting effort from Shivam Dube, who smashed 47 off 17 balls, CSK failed to reach near GT's total. Brilliant bowling spells from Mohammed Siraj, Kagiso Rabada, and Rashid Khan, who claimed three wickets apiece, bundled CSK out for just 140 in 13.4 overs.

(With PTI inputs)