MS Dhoni Begins IPL 2026 Prep in Ranchi Nets for Chennai Super Kings

Former Indian captain MS Dhoni has commenced his net practice in Ranchi ahead of the 2026 Indian Premier League season, where he will represent Chennai Super Kings for the 17th time. The Jharkhand State Cricket Association shared a video of him batting and chatting with secretary Saurabh Tiwary. Dhoni continues to play in the IPL despite retiring from international cricket in 2020, remaining a core leader for CSK. The team is looking to rebound after a disappointing last-place finish in the previous season.

Key Points: MS Dhoni Starts Net Practice for IPL 2026 with CSK

  • Dhoni begins IPL 2026 prep in Ranchi nets
  • Will play 17th season for Chennai Super Kings
  • CSK finished last in the previous IPL season
  • Dhoni is a 5-time IPL winning captain
2 min read

MS Dhoni starts net practice in Ranchi ahead of IPL 2026

MS Dhoni begins training for IPL 2026 with Chennai Super Kings. See the video from JSCA nets as the legend prepares for another season.

MS Dhoni starts net practice in Ranchi ahead of IPL 2026
"Look who is back. Pride of JSCA: Mahendra Singh Dhoni - Jharkhand State Cricket Association"

Ranchi, Jan 24

Former Indian captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni has begun preparations for the upcoming Indian Premier League 2026 season. The 44-year-old will represent Chennai Super Kings for the 17th time and was seen padded up and batting in the nets in a video shared by the Jharkhand State Cricket Association on their social media platforms.

JSCA called Dhoni their pride and wrote, "Look who is back. Pride of JSCA: Mahendra Singh Dhoni," in the caption of their post on Instagram.

In the clip, Dhoni can be seen chatting with JSCA secretary Saurabh Tiwary while gearing up for the nets.

Dhoni retired from international cricket in 2020, except for the IPL, where he continues to represent his beloved CSK.

Dhoni is one of the most influential players in the CSK ranks and is a core member of the leadership group. He has won five titles for the team during his captaincy stint.

CSK had a poor run last season. The team finished last in the points table. The five-time champions were only able to win four matches out of fourteen.

Dhoni's performance was also disappointing throughout the season. CSK's finisher scored just 196 runs in 13 innings at an average of 24.50 and a strike rate of 135.17, with a best score of 30*, and even captained CSK in Gaikwad's absence due to injury.

Dhoni is still one of the finest batters in IPL history, with 5,439 runs in 278 matches and 242 innings at an average of 38.80, a strike rate of 137.45, and 24 fifties, with a best score of 84*.

A modern-day legend of Indian cricket, wicketkeeper-batter Dhoni has led India in all three formats of the game. A recipient of the Padma Bhushan (2018), Padma Shri (2009), and Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award (2008), Dhoni represented India from 2004 to 2019, leading the country to the T20 World Cup in 2007 and the ODI World Cup in 2011.

- IANS

Share this article:

Reader Comments

S
Sarah B
As a cricket fan living abroad, Dhoni's longevity is incredible. But respectfully, CSK needs to think about succession. Last season's stats show even legends have off years. Hope he has one last magical season in him!
P
Priya S
Ranchi ka sher is back! 🦁 JSCA is right to call him their pride. He puts Jharkhand on the global cricket map every single time. The dedication to start practice so early... this is what sets champions apart.
V
Vikram M
Last season was tough, no doubt. But writing off Dhoni based on one bad season? His overall IPL record speaks for itself. The calm he brings to CSK is worth more than just runs. Whistle Podu!
R
Rohit P
The article mentions he captained in Gaikwad's absence. That's key. His leadership on the field is instant. Even if he bats lower down, his mind is CSK's biggest asset. Can't wait for IPL 2026!
A
Ananya R
It's not just about cricket with him. It's about the legacy. Padma Bhushan, World Cup wins, and still grinding in Ranchi nets. He teaches us about passion and humility. True inspiration 🇮🇳

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

Leave a Comment

Minimum 50 characters 0/50