New Delhi: MS Dhoni’s future in the IPL is one of the biggest talking points in cricket, and Chennai Super Kings Bowling coach Eric Simmons It has now been made clear that only the legendary former captain will decide whether he returns next season or not.Speaking after CSK’s last league game against Gujarat Titans in Ahmedabad, Simmons revealed that the 44-year-old wicketkeeper-batsman is still hitting the nets brilliantly despite struggling with a leg injury that has ruled him out of IPL 2026 action.“Are you seriously asking me that question? We always are,” Simmons said when asked if CSK were hopeful of Dhoni’s return next year.“He has hit the ball very well,” he said. Apparently he had a leg injury which made it very difficult for him to run, so he couldn’t play.‘He’s killing it like I’ve ever seen him’Although Dhoni has not featured in a single match this season, Simon insisted that the veteran’s power hitting is as sharp as ever.“But in terms of hitting the ball in the net, he’s hitting it and I’ve never seen him hit it,” said the former South African all-rounder.The comments are likely to excite CSK fans, many of whom hope Dhoni has one last IPL season left after missing the entire 2026 campaign due to fitness concerns.However, Simmons emphasized that Dhoni will return only if he feels he can truly contribute fully to the team.“But I keep saying, only MS will know, and MS will make the decision about when it’s ready and when it’s right,” he added.‘If he feels he’s not ready, he won’t play’According to Simmons, Dhoni’s decision will never be driven by emotion or personal milestones.“And let me tell you, if he knows he’s not, he’s not going to play. But if he’s right, he’s going to play,” Simmons said. “He will make a decision in the best interest of the team and not for himself as an individual.”Despite not playing this season, Dhoni remained closely involved with the squad throughout the campaign, mentoring the younger players within the CSK set-up.“But it’s going to be great to have him playing. It’s been great to have him around the unit and to be someone who has knowledge and comfort,” Simmons added.Dhoni’s absence has been sorely felt during a disappointing IPL 2026 campaign for CSK, who crashed out of the playoffs after suffering their biggest ever defeat in IPL history against Gujarat Titans.
