MS Dhoni visits NSG Hub in Chennai amid IPL 2026 speculation

MS Dhoni (Screen grab)

MS Dhoni’s recent visit to the NSG (National Security Guard) Regional Hub in Chennai has added another layer of emotion to an already high-voltage day for Chennai Super Kings, as questions continue to swirl over whether the legendary captain will feature in IPL 2026 at Chepauk. MS Dhoni, who holds the honorary rank of Lieutenant Colonel in the Territorial Army, spent time with NSG commando personnel during his visit, interacting with them and taking part in shooting practice. In a light-hearted moment from the session, Dhoni, dressed in a black T-shirt and denim, was seen discussing fitness and training routines with the commandos before pointing towards himself and asking, “Fit lag raha hu na”. The unexpected remark drew smiles and laughter from the personnel around him. He was also seen participating in shooting drills, handling firearms under supervision. Dhoni’s long-standing association with the armed forces has been well documented. Back in 2011, he was conferred the honorary rank of Lieutenant Colonel in the Territorial Army’s Parachute Regiment, and has since taken part in multiple training attachments, including duties in Jammu and Kashmir. This appearance now coincides with one of the most emotionally charged days of the IPL 2026 season for Chennai Super Kings. CSK are playing their final home game at Chepauk against Sunrisers Hyderabad, and the biggest question once again is whether Dhoni will walk out in yellow. The speculation is rooted in the fact that MS Dhoni has not played a single match this season, having been sidelined due to a calf strain that initially ruled him out for the first two weeks but ultimately kept him out of the entire campaign so far. Adding to the emotion is Dhoni’s old remark from 2021, when he had hinted at a desire for his final T20 appearance to come in Chennai. Nearly five years later, with CSK still in the playoff race, the timing has made today’s fixture feel like more than just a league game, even without any official retirement announcement. CSK’s situation is simple but tense: two wins from their remaining matches would take them to 16 points and keep their playoff hopes alive, though qualification will still depend on other results. Even if Dhoni does not feature in the XI, it is expected that he will be present at Chepauk today, giving fans at least a glimpse of him on a landmark evening. His brief training involvement with the team has only added to anticipation, but his actual participation remains uncertain as the franchise has taken a cautious approach throughout the season. CSK have also urged fans to stay back after the match for a lap of honour, further adding to the emotional atmosphere around what could be a defining night in their IPL 2026 campaign.