Suresh Raina asks MS Dhoni to play in IPL 2027; the latter made an appearance on the field last night

Chennai Super Kings (CSK) suffered a 5-wicket defeat against Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH), and supporters were treated to a special moment as MS Dhoni made an appearance on the field.

On Monday, the Chennai Super Kings suffered another defeat in IPL 2026, this time against Sunrisers Hyderabad. Fans of CSK experienced a bittersweet evening at Chepauk as they were treated to a special moment as MS Dhoni made an appearance on the field. The 44-year-old wicketkeeper-batter didn’t feature in any of the matches of CSK in this year’s IPL due to a calf injury, leaving fans disappointed.

MS Dhoni stepped onto the field for a team photo.

Dhoni, after a long time, stepped onto the field for a team photograph and later completed a lap of honour, acknowledging the unwavering support of the Chennai crowd. Making fans nostalgic, Dhoni also reunited with his former India and CSK teammate Suresh Raina, who was present at the venue as a commentator. Raina revealed details of a surprising conversation he had with the former captain regarding a potential comeback. Speaking on Star Sports, Raina said, “I told him, ‘You have given IPL 2026 a missed call. ‘” It won’t count. You have to come back next year. He said ‘my body is a little weak’ – I said ‘we are not believing anything. You have to play next year’. It’s his personal call. I think he is positive. The team is also gelling well again.” However, Dhoni told Raina that his body is no longer what it used to be. Hence, playing for the franchise next year might be too big an ask.

CSK head coach Stephen Fleming also spoke about Dhoni’s future.

In a post-match press conference, CSK head coach Stephen Fleming was also asked about MS Dhoni’s future. Fleming remained coy and said that it is a call for the management to take. He said, “It’s a choice for the management. I know there has been a lot of talk about it. MS (Dhoni) has been around a lot this year, which is very important for the team, for young players in continuity, so he’s been a big part. He hasn’t played, but he’s still had a big influence on the team.” He added, “There’s a lot of good things we’ve done. We’ve introduced some new players that will hopefully be generation players for CSK. But I know we are judged on results, that’s fair. So yeah, that’s a management call, not mine.”