Ranchi is buzzing with excitement as cricket legend Mahendra Singh Dhoni dives headfirst into preparations for IPL 2026. The former Indian captain, now 44, is sharpening his skills at the JSCA International Stadium, signaling his intent to represent Chennai Super Kings for the 17th time.
Jharkhand State Cricket Association (JSCA) lit up social media with a captivating video of Dhoni donning pads and taking on net bowlers. The footage captures ‘Thala’ in his element, chatting with JSCA secretary Saurabh Tiwari as he gears up. JSCA’s Instagram caption proudly declared, ‘Look who’s back. JSCA’s pride: Mahendra Singh Dhoni.’
Since retiring from international cricket in 2020, Dhoni has been IPL’s enduring star, exclusively featuring for CSK. His leadership has delivered five IPL titles to the franchise, cementing his status as one of the game’s greatest tacticians.
Last season was a tough one for CSK, who slumped to the bottom of the points table with just four wins from 14 games. Dhoni contributed 196 runs at an average of 24.50 across 13 innings, but couldn’t notch a half-century. Yet, his IPL legacy remains unmatched: 5,439 runs in 278 matches at 38.80, including 24 fifties and a best of 84*.
Dhoni’s accolades extend far beyond the IPL. Under his captaincy, India triumphed in the 2007 T20 World Cup and 2011 ODI World Cup. His contributions earned him the Padma Bhushan (2018), Padma Shri (2009), and Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna (2008).
As IPL 2026 approaches in March, Dhoni’s return to the nets underscores his unyielding passion. Fans are already dreaming of another magical season from the man who turns pressure into glory. With CSK aiming to rebound, all eyes are on whether Thala can script yet another comeback tale.
