Former Indian cricketer Suresh Raina has shared a fresh update on the future of MS Dhoni’s IPL career, saying the legendary captain told him his body is “feeling a bit weak,” sparking renewed speculation about retirement.

Raina revealed the conversation during the post-match broadcast on Star Sports after the Chennai Super Kings vs Sunrisers Hyderabad match on Monday, where he met Dhoni at Chepauk stadium. Raina said he jokingly told Dhoni, “Take IPL 2026 as a missed call. It doesn’t make sense. You have to come back next year.” In response, Dhoni reportedly said, “My body is a bit weak.”

‘It’s a personal decision,’ says Raina

Raina added that while the final decision rests with Dhoni, he personally believes the former India captain is still in a positive frame of mind.

According to Raina, the Chennai Super Kings environment is also stabilising again, suggesting that the team is rebuilding momentum even amid uncertainty around Dhoni’s future. Raina further said, “It’s his personal decision, but I feel he is positive.”

Emotional moment at Chepauk

During the same match, MS Dhoni was seen arriving at Chepauk stadium, where he interacted with teammates and fans. He also shared an emotional moment with Raina, embracing him warmly on the field. The Chennai Super Kings franchise later posted a picture of the two former teammates on social media platform X, highlighting their long-standing bond as key figures in the team’s history.

Dhoni also took a lap around the stadium, acknowledging the crowd, which intensified speculation that this could be one of his final appearances at the venue.

Retirement speculation continues

In recent days, several media reports had claimed that Dhoni might be playing his final IPL match at Chepauk this season. However, despite widespread speculation and emotional scenes at the stadium, no official retirement announcement was made. The 42-year-old wicketkeeper-batter has not played any match in the ongoing season due to a calf strain injury, which has kept him away from active competition.

Dhoni’s IPL legacy remains unmatched

MS Dhoni remains one of the most successful captains in IPL history, having led Chennai Super Kings to five titles. Under his leadership, CSK became one of the most consistent franchises in the league. He has also scored over 5,000 IPL runs and is widely regarded as one of the greatest finishers and leaders in T20 cricket. Despite injury concerns and growing retirement talks, Dhoni continues to remain closely associated with CSK’s dressing room and team environment.