MS Dhoni has returned to Ranchi and will not be with Chennai Super Kings for their match against Gujarat Titans in Ahmedabad, as he recovers from a sore thumb.
Hussey’s update
CSK batting coach Michael Hussey confirmed the news on the eve of the game. He said Dhoni is not with the team, that the thumb is recovering well, but that he will not be ready for this fixture. Hussey added that Dhoni would rejoin the squad if CSK qualify for the playoffs.
Qualification hopes dented
CSK’s chances of reaching the playoffs suffered a heavy blow when they lost by five wickets to Sunrisers Hyderabad at Chepauk, a result that left the dressing room visibly downcast. Hussey admitted the squad felt a bit flat afterwards but stressed the need to move on quickly, with one league match still to play.
Present at Chepauk
Although Dhoni did not play against SRH, he was at Chepauk after the game. He took part in the team photoshoot and joined his team-mates on the lap of appreciation in front of the home crowd.
With his thumb still healing, the focus for CSK now turns to the final league match, and to whether they can keep their slim playoff hopes alive and bring Dhoni back into the squad for the knockout stage.
