MS Dhoni fires at NSG range, aces six targets; asks commandos, "Don't I look fit?"

Former India captain trains with NSG in Chennai, operates submachine gun and pistol; remains doubtful for Chepauk return amid calf strain

Mahendra Singh Dhoni, the former India captain and Chennai Super Kings (CSK) stalwart, spent Sunday at the Regional Hub of the National Security Guards (NSG) in Chennai, firing at close-range targets and spending time with commandos and their families, officials and on-ground witnesses said.

A display at the range

Arriving in the late morning, Dhoni visited the NSG facility where he took part in a live-fire session. According to officials present, he used a submachine gun and later fired a pistol, hitting all six assigned targets during the short exercise. Photographs circulating on social media showed Dhoni aiming the pistol and operating a small submachine gun under supervision.

Casual interaction with troops

Beyond the firing range, Dhoni spent more than an hour interacting with NSG personnel and their family members. Sources familiar with the visit said he shared a meal with the commandos and engaged in informal conversation. At one point, Dhoni asked the soldiers, "Don't I look fit?" The jawans reportedly replied that he had looked even fitter during an earlier visit. "As time passes, one has to work harder," Dhoni was heard saying, according to those present.

Long-standing armed forces ties

Dhoni’s association with India’s armed forces is well-documented. He holds the honorary rank of Lieutenant Colonel in the Territorial Army (106 Para Territorial Army Battalion, Parachute Regiment). The veteran wicketkeeper-batter completed paratrooper training in 2015 and has previously spent time training with military units in Kashmir and elsewhere. He took part in an NSG camp in 2023 as well, officials noted.

Injury and IPL uncertainty

The visit comes amid the 2026 Indian Premier League season, where Dhoni has been absent from CSK matches so far because of a recurrence of a calf strain. Chennai are scheduled to host Sunrisers Hyderabad at the MA Chidambaram Stadium (Chepauk) later on Sunday. While there was speculation that Dhoni might return to the playing XI, neither Dhoni nor CSK management have confirmed his participation. The franchise had earlier said the former captain needed additional time to recover after suffering another calf injury.

Ground-level atmosphere

Fans gathered outside the NSG hub and near the Chepauk precincts in the afternoon, hoping for glimpses of Dhoni. Several commandos posed for selfies with him at the base, and a set of photographs shared by attendees showed the former captain smiling and interacting warmly with children. Local witnesses described the mood as light-hearted, with troops treating the visit as an opportunity for a relaxed exchange rather than a formal ceremony.

Security and protocol

Officials at the NSG facility said the session followed standard safety protocols and was non-operational in nature; it was organised as a friendly visit rather than a technical exercise. “He has trained with forces before, and today was another round of mutual respect and camaraderie,” a facility spokesperson said, declining to be named.

Public interest and next steps

Dhoni’s presence at a high-security training establishment and his continued ties with the armed forces keep drawing public and media attention, particularly because CSK’s captaincy and playing plans remain subject to his fitness. With CSK still to decide on his match readiness for the home fixture, fans and cricket analysts will watch closely for any update from team management later on Sunday.

If Dhoni’s calf recovers in time and CSK clears him, he could return to the field at Chepauk. For now, the visit added another chapter to his enduring relationship with India’s security forces and provided supporters a rare, informal glimpse of the former skipper away from the cricketing arena.

Chennai Super Kings suffer early setback as veteran wicketkeeper-batter misses first two weeks; Sanju Samson set to keep wickets.

Dhoni Sidelined with Calf Strain

Chennai Super Kings (CSK) have confirmed that MS Dhoni will miss the first two weeks of the Tata IPL 2026 season after sustaining a calf strain during practice sessions. The 44-year-old is undergoing rehabilitation, with the franchise closely monitoring his recovery.

The announcement came on Saturday, the opening day of the tournament, just days before CSK's season opener against Rajasthan Royals on March 30. Sources indicated the injury occurred in recent intra-squad matches, forcing the team to adjust their plans quickly.

Sanju Samson to Step Up as Wicketkeeper

With Dhoni unavailable, newly acquired Sanju Samson is likely to take over full-time wicketkeeping duties. Samson, who joined CSK in a major trade from Rajasthan Royals, brings strong recent form after being named Player of the Tournament in the T20 World Cup.

The Kerala batter is expected to open the batting alongside captain Ruturaj Gaikwad, adding depth and stability to the lineup during the initial phase. Team management believes this move will help maintain balance until Dhoni returns to full fitness.

Major Trade Reshapes CSK Squad

CSK secured Samson ahead of the mini-auction in a high-profile exchange, sending Ravindra Jadeja and Sam Curran to Rajasthan Royals for approximately ₹18 crore. This deal was one of the biggest ahead of the 2026 season and has already sparked debate over squad composition.

Samson's inclusion provides CSK with a reliable gloveman and explosive batter, especially important as the side aims for a record sixth IPL title without their talismanic leader for the early games.

No Early Reunion with Virat Kohli

Fans hoping for an early on-field reunion between MS Dhoni and Virat Kohli will have to wait. CSK face Royal Challengers Bengaluru only once in the league stage, on April 5 at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru.

A possible clash in the playoffs remains open, provided both teams qualify and Dhoni recovers in time. The injury has dampened expectations for that marquee encounter in the first half of the season.

Ruturaj Gaikwad Lauds Dhoni's Leadership Style

In a recent CSK YouTube interaction, captain Ruturaj Gaikwad spoke highly of Dhoni's approach towards the younger generation. “I have huge respect for Mahi Bhai. He doesn't attend team discussions himself, he wants Fleming and me to take things forward,” Gaikwad said.

He added that Dhoni focuses on problem-solving rather than dictating right or wrong, trusting the current leadership to drive the team. This hands-off style has been praised as a significant step for succession within the franchise.

Impact on CSK's Campaign

The absence of Dhoni, a five-time IPL champion with the team, comes as a blow for CSK at the start of their campaign. His experience behind the stumps and finishing abilities have been central to the side's success over the years.

However, the franchise appears prepared, with Samson and other options like Urvil Patel available. Early games against Rajasthan Royals, Punjab Kings, RCB, and Delhi Capitals will test the revamped lineup as they chase consistency under Gaikwad.

Recovery Timeline and Future Outlook

CSK officials have expressed optimism about Dhoni's return after the initial two weeks, with the medical team overseeing his rehab. Fans have been quick to send wishes, trending messages of support for the veteran known affectionately as 'Thala'.

As the IPL 2026 unfolds, all eyes will remain on CSK's ability to navigate the early fixtures without their iconic figure. The team management has indicated they are focused on long-term stability while hoping for a swift comeback.

What Next for Dhoni and CSK

Dhoni's return timeline will be clearer in the coming days as rehabilitation progresses. For now, the focus shifts to Samson stepping into a key role and Gaikwad leading a young unit in high-stakes matches.

The development adds an extra layer of intrigue to the ongoing season, with CSK looking to overcome the setback and build momentum right from the start.