His last match for CSK was on May 25, 2025, but for everyone -- not just Chennai fans but the whole of India -- he is a towering, timeless presence.
The Chepauk crowd rose as one when the legendary Mahendra Singh Dhoni walked out for the team photograph during the Chennai Super Kings' must-win clash against Sunrisers Hyderabad on Monday, May 18, 2026.
Here's wishing the OG 'Captain Fantastic' a very Happy Birthday.
The 43-year-old Chennai Super Kings star was seen doing some batting drills in an undisclosed neighbourhood.
M S Dhoni's appearance in Chennai has ignited fervent discussions among fans regarding the future of Chennai Super Kings.
Former India captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni was seen riding a KTM 390 Duke at the Madras International Circuit during a promotional event, showcasing his continued passion for motorcycles and speed.
Chennai Super Kings skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad remains tightlipped about MS Dhoni's future plans, while acknowledging the team's struggles and transition during the IPL season.
Former Indian cricketers Suresh Raina, Munaf Patel, and Aakash Chopra extended their birthday greetings to former India captain MS Dhoni as he turned 45. They lauded his inspiring journey from a ticket collector to a trophy-winning captain, highlighting his legacy beyond records and his impact on an entire era of cricket.
Mahendra Singh Dhoni reunited with former CSK team-mate Suresh Raina.
Mahendra Singh Dhoni has missed the first six games of IPL 2026 due to a calf injury.
Mahendra Singh Dhoni was at his destructive best as he took the bowlers to task during the Chennai Super Kings training session in Mumbai on Monday.
MS Dhoni is preparing for another season with Chennai Super Kings, showcasing his attention to detail by personally repairing and polishing his bat with an electric sander.
While photographs of M S Dhoni enjoying the company of movie stars have been scattered on social media, a controversial video preceding the birthday bash surfaced on the Internet.
Dinesh Karthik came under a lot of flak from cricket fans after he didn't include Mahendra Singh Dhoni in his best all-format India XI.
Mahendra Singh Dhoni, who turns 45 in July, will be playing in his 19th season of IPL, starting in March.
It is said that in Chennai, fans do not watch cricket -- they analyse and debate it and even outthink the experts. Cricket here is savoured like their favourite dish -- a hot bowl of rasam.
Former India batsman Ambati Rayudu also reached Chennai on Wednesday while the Tamil Nadu players in the squad will join later.
Virat Kohli has urged young cricketers to prioritise long-term commitment and respect in the sport over the instant fame and money offered by the IPL, emphasising the importance of being versatile players capable of handling pressure in all formats.
With whispers of this being his final season, fans cherish every appearance even more.
Former Indian cricketer Aakash Chopra believes MS Dhoni should retire if he's relegated to an 'Impact Player' role for Chennai Super Kings (CSK), suggesting it's time for the veteran to consider hanging up his boots.
As 'Thala' MS Dhoni stepped out for his 400th T20 appearance, in the stands the original 'Thala' of Kollywood, Ajith Kumar, was there to cheer him on.
Punjab Kings all-rounder Suryansh Shedge discusses his conversations with MS Dhoni about the role of a finisher in cricket, his experiences with Mumbai, and his expectations for the upcoming IPL season with PBKS.
CSK's surprising decision to send Mahendra Singh Dhoni to bat at No 9 during their run chase against RCB has drawn sharp criticism from former cricketers and fans.
Jofra Archer's superb all-round showing helped Rajasthan Royals outclass Mumbai Indians to seal their place in the IPL 2026 playoffs, in Mumbai.
Dhoni took on Sri Lankan pace sensation Matheesha Pathirana and sent the ball flying with a vintage finish.
'There have even been times when he's stood right in front of the tava and shown us exactly how he wants it.'
Dinesh Karthik may have spent his career in M S Dhoni's shadow, but his contributions to Indian cricket, especially in the IPL, deserve a legacy all his own, asserts Sudhir Bisht.
While the old fans continue to lend their support to Thala and his men, CSK's new generation of fans are not impressed.
'Met Mahi bhai after so long, felt good to catch up!'
Mahendra Singh Dhoni was as usual in demand at the end of the IPL match!
Mahendra Singh Dhoni, the legendary captain, has officially confirmed his participation in the upcoming IPL season.
The CSK icon is certainly enjoying his time away from cricket.
Dhoni, a popular figure in Chennai, especially among IPL fans, has been given the moniker 'Thala' having led Chennai Super Kings to 5 India Premier League titles.
During every IPL match, the Chennai Super Kings legend is swarmed by opponents and coaches eager for a moment with him.
CSK won the 44th game of IPL 2021 against Sunrisers Hyderabad to book a place in the play-offs.
This is the first time that Mahendra Singh Dhoni's parents Pan Singh and Devika Devi have attended a match in the stadium to watch him play.
CSK shared a video compilation of the players, dedicating a special birthday wish for Dhoni.
While Gaikwad played through pain against Delhi Capitals and Punjab Kings, the CSK medical team could only get his MRI done after the swelling subsided.
Spectators at the M A Chidambaram stadium in Chennai couldn't contain their joy as their beloved Thala was back in the CSK yellow once more.
'The support is phenomenal. But, as you go on and play, then you realise they are MS Dhoni fans before they are CSK fans.'