‘Fit lag raha hu na’: MS Dhoni trains with NSG squads as CSK fans await Chepauk’s return

MS Dhoni’s recent visit to the NSG (National Security Guard) regional center in Chennai has added another layer of emotion to the already high tension for Chennai Super Kings as questions continue to swirl about whether the legendary skipper will feature in IPL 2026 in Chepauk.MS Dhoni, who holds the honorary rank of Lt. Colonel in the Territorial Army, spent time with the NSG commandos during his visit, interacting with them and participating in shooting exercises. In a light-hearted moment from the session, Dhoni, dressed in a black T-shirt and denims, was seen discussing fitness and training routines with the commandos before pointing to himself and asking, “Fit lag raha hu na”. The unexpected remark drew smiles and laughter from the staff around him. He was also seen participating in shooting practice, handling a firearm under supervision. Dhoni’s long association with the armed forces has been well documented. In 2011, he was awarded the honorary rank of Lt. Colonel in the Airborne Regiment of the Territorial Army and has since participated in several training stints, including duty in Jammu and Kashmir.This appearance now coincides with one of the most emotionally charged days of the IPL 2026 season for Chennai Super Kings. CSK play their last home game in Chepauk against Sunrisers Hyderabad and the biggest question is again whether Dhoni will walk out in yellow.The speculation is rooted in the fact that MS Dhoni has not played a single match this season as he has been sidelined with a calf strain that initially ruled him out for the first two weeks but ended up ruling him out of the entire campaign so far.Adding to the excitement is Dhoni’s old remark from 2021 when he hinted at his desire for his final T20 appearance in Chennai. Almost five years later, with CSK still playing in the playoffs, the timing made today’s match look like more than just a league match, even without any official announcement of the end.CSK’s situation is simple but tense: two wins from their remaining games would take them to 16 points and keep their playoff hopes alive, although qualification will still depend on other results.

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Even though Dhoni is not in the playing XI, he is expected to be present at Chepauk today, giving the fans at least a glimpse of him on the landmark evening. His brief practice involvement with the team only added to the anticipation, but his actual participation remains uncertain as the franchise took a cautious approach during the season.CSK also encouraged fans to stay back for a lap of honor after the match, further adding to the emotional atmosphere surrounding what could be a defining night in their IPL 2026 campaign.