NewKerala.com

Dhoni Likely to Skip LSG Clash to Preserve CSK's Winning Momentum

Anil Kumble believes MS Dhoni may not return against LSG to avoid disturbing CSK's winning momentum. Dhoni has been practicing extensively in nets, including wicketkeeping, to regain match fitness after a knee injury. However, Kumble feels the veteran captain will prioritize team balance over his personal return. CSK have recovered from a slow start and currently sit sixth in the points table with 10 points from 10 matches.

Key Points: Dhoni Unlikely to Disrupt CSK's Winning XI: Kumble

  • Kumble says Dhoni unlikely to risk disrupting CSK's winning combo
  • Dhoni has been batting and wicketkeeping in nets to regain fitness
  • CSK have won 3 of last 4 matches, placed 6th with 10 points
  • Dhoni has not played any match in IPL 2026 due to knee injury
2 min read

'Dhoni won't risk disrupting CSK's winning combination against LSG': Kumble

Anil Kumble says MS Dhoni may not play against LSG despite regaining fitness, as CSK prefer to keep their winning combination intact in IPL 2026.

"Even if he manages to regain the required fitness levels, I feel he will not want to come into the playing XI because CSK are doing well. - Anil Kumble"

Chennai, May 10

Former India captain Anil Kumble believes veteran wicketkeeper-batter MS Dhoni may not feature for Chennai Super Kings against Lucknow Super Giants despite working hard to regain full match fitness, as the five-time champions would not want to disturb a successful combination.

Speaking ahead of the IPL clash, Kumble said CSK is a side that strongly believes in continuity and rarely changes a winning XI.

"CSK are the kind of side that don't like their winning streak to end. They don't tinker much with their winning combination, and they believe in backing their players," Kumble told Jio Hotstar.

The former India spinner revealed that Dhoni has been putting in extra effort behind the scenes, including spending significant time batting and wicketkeeping during practice sessions.

"Now, MS Dhoni has been batting a lot in the nets. He has even been practicing wicketkeeping in net sessions, which is very surprising because he is someone who never keeps wickets in the nets. He is doing that and trying his best to return to full match fitness," he added.

However, Kumble feels the five-time IPL-winning captain may still choose not to return immediately if it risks affectin the balance and rhythm of the side.

"But even if he manages to regain the required fitness levels, I feel he will not want to come into the playing XI because CSK are doing well. He will not take the chance of disrupting the team's momentum and the player combination that has helped them win," Kumble said.

Dhoni injured his knee ahead of the IPL 2026 during a practice session, and he has not played a single match for the team in the ongoing season.

Meanwhile, CSK have made a strong comeback in IPL 2026 after a poor start as they have won three out of the last four matches and are placed at sixth position in the points table with 10 points in 10 matches. They can secure their place in the playoffs if they win a minimum of three out of the last four matches remaining.

- IANS

Share this article:

Reader Comments

P
Priya S
Kumble is absolutely right. CSK's biggest strength is their continuity and trust in players. Why break a winning combination? Dhoni being Dhoni will prioritize the team over himself. That's what makes him the GOAT captain. 👏
V
Vikram M
Honestly, I'm a bit skeptical. Dhoni batting in nets and keeping? That's huge news. But if he's fit, why wait? We've seen in the past how he can change games with his finishing. The middle order is still shaky sometimes—Jaddu can't do everything alone.
S
Sarah B
Respect to Dhoni's selflessness. Most players would rush back. He's thinking long-term—for the team's momentum and his own fitness. CSK fans are lucky to have such a leader. Looking forward to seeing him back at full strength! 🇮🇳
R
Rohit P
One thing is clear: CSK's management has always valued stability over flashy changes. But at this stage of the season, every game is a knockout. If Dhoni is 80% fit, I'd still bring him in for his experience. Young players get jittery in pressure situations—his calmness is unmatched.
K
Kavya N
It's so typical CSK—always one step ahead. Even Kumble is acknowledging their unique approach. The way they've turned around from a poor start shows their depth. If Dhoni comes back now, it'll be perfectly timed. That's how the Thala rolls! 😎🔥

We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.

Leave a Comment

Minimum 50 characters 0/50