MS Dhoni Begins IPL 2026 Prep: CSK Drop Power-Packed Practice Video That Fans Can’t Stop Watching

MS Dhoni begins preparations ahead of IPL 2026 as CSK share a viral practice video, sending fans into a frenzy

Mahendra Singh Dhoni, fondly known as “Captain Cool” and “Thala” by millions of Chennai Super Kings (CSK) fans, has officially begun his preparations ahead of the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) season. In a move that sent the internet into a frenzy, CSK shared a high-energy practice video of Dhoni training at the nets, instantly going viral across social media platforms.

The short clip, posted on CSK’s official handles, shows the legendary wicketkeeper-batsman in action — timing the ball sweetly, rotating his shoulders, and displaying the calm confidence that has defined his illustrious career. For fans eagerly awaiting Dhoni’s next chapter in the IPL, the video has reignited excitement and speculation about his form, fitness, and future with the franchise.

The practice video, lasting just over a minute, features Dhoni batting in the nets, focusing on timing, footwork, and power-hitting. Clad in CSK training gear, he can be seen smashing a few deliveries into the stands while effortlessly dispatching others along the ground.

CSK captioned the post with a simple yet powerful message that instantly trended: “Thala in action. Preparation mode ON.”

Within minutes, the clip racked up millions of views, tens of thousands of likes, and an avalanche of fan comments. Hashtags like #ThalaIsBack, #MSDhoni, and #CSK quickly began trending on X (formerly Twitter), Instagram, and Facebook.

For a player who has retired from international cricket but continues to dominate hearts in the IPL, even a short practice clip is enough to send shockwaves across the cricketing world.

As soon as CSK dropped the video, fans flooded social media with emotional reactions. Many called it the “best news of the year,” while others joked that IPL season officially begins the moment Dhoni steps into the nets.

“Thala batting in the nets feels better than festival vibes,” one fan commented.

Another wrote, “Every season feels like a bonus season with Dhoni. Long live the King!”

The video also sparked renewed debates about whether the upcoming IPL season could be Dhoni’s last as a player. While the CSK icon has remained tight-lipped about retirement plans, each training session now carries added emotional weight for fans.

MS Dhoni’s IPL journey is nothing short of legendary. Since the league’s inception in 2008, he has been the face of Chennai Super Kings, leading the franchise to multiple IPL titles and cementing his status as one of the most successful captains in the tournament’s history.

Under Dhoni’s leadership, CSK has won several IPL trophies and reached the playoffs in the majority of seasons. Known for his tactical brilliance, calm demeanor, and match-winning finishes, Dhoni has delivered countless iconic moments — from last-over sixes to lightning-fast stumpings behind the stumps.

Even in the latter stages of his career, Dhoni continues to play a crucial role for CSK, not just as a player but as a mentor and leader for the younger squad members.

While the video is short, keen-eyed fans and cricket analysts have already started dissecting every detail of Dhoni’s training session.

One of the most striking aspects is his fitness. Despite being in his early 40s, Dhoni looks agile, strong, and sharp. His footwork appears solid, and his bat swing remains as smooth as ever.

The clip also highlights his focus on power-hitting, a skill that has become central to his role in recent IPL seasons. Over the past few years, Dhoni has primarily batted in the lower middle order, often coming in during the death overs to provide a late flourish.

Seeing him practice big shots early in the training phase suggests that CSK plans to continue using Dhoni as a finisher, leveraging his experience and composure in pressure situations.

Dhoni’s return to training also signals the start of Chennai Super Kings’ broader preparations for the upcoming IPL season.

CSK, known for their stability and long-term planning, have once again retained a strong core of experienced players while integrating fresh talent into the squad. The franchise has historically prioritized team chemistry, leadership continuity, and role clarity — a strategy that has paid rich dividends over the years.

With Dhoni still at the helm or playing a guiding role in leadership decisions, CSK fans are optimistic about another deep run in the tournament.

The practice video is likely just the beginning, with more behind-the-scenes clips, training sessions, and team updates expected to follow as the IPL countdown intensifies.

Every IPL season featuring MS Dhoni now comes with inevitable retirement rumours. Ever since he stepped away from international cricket in 2020, speculation has surrounded his future in the IPL.

Some fans believe the upcoming season could be Dhoni’s “last dance,” while others hope he continues for at least one more year.

The CSK icon has repeatedly said that he takes things one season at a time and focuses on staying fit and enjoying the game.

“I’m not thinking about retirement right now. I just want to enjoy playing cricket,” Dhoni said in a past interview.

His return to training and the intensity visible in the practice video suggest that he remains fully committed to giving his best for CSK, regardless of what the future holds.

Few athletes in the world command the kind of loyalty and admiration that MS Dhoni enjoys. His every move — whether it’s a practice session, a social media post, or a casual appearance — becomes headline news.

This phenomenon, often referred to as the “Dhoni effect,” speaks volumes about his impact on Indian cricket and popular culture.

For CSK, Dhoni’s presence is more than just a sporting advantage. He is the franchise’s biggest brand ambassador, fan magnet, and emotional anchor.

From packed stadiums to record-breaking merchandise sales, Dhoni’s influence extends far beyond the boundary ropes.

One of Dhoni’s most valuable contributions to CSK in recent years has been his role as a mentor to younger players.

Rising stars like Ruturaj Gaikwad, Shivam Dube, and other emerging talents have openly credited Dhoni for guiding them through high-pressure situations and helping them refine their game.

The practice video also shows Dhoni interacting with younger players, offering tips and encouragement between batting sessions.

This mentor-mentee dynamic has become a hallmark of CSK’s team culture and a key reason behind their sustained success.

The viral practice video once again highlighted Dhoni’s unparalleled social media pull.

Within hours of being posted, the clip crossed millions of views, trending across platforms in multiple countries.

Brand experts note that Dhoni’s digital engagement numbers often rival those of current international superstars, despite his retirement from international cricket.

For CSK’s sponsors and partners, Dhoni’s presence remains a major commercial asset, driving visibility, fan engagement, and brand loyalty.

As the IPL season approaches, all eyes will remain on MS Dhoni and Chennai Super Kings.

Key questions continue to dominate fan discussions:

Will Dhoni play a full season or limit his appearances?
Will he continue as CSK’s captain or transition into a mentor-only role?
Could this season mark his final farewell from the IPL stage?

While the answers remain uncertain, one thing is clear: Dhoni’s passion for the game is far from fading.

His return to training and the energy seen in the practice video suggest that he is ready to give it his all once again.

MS Dhoni Begins IPL 2026 Prep: CSK Drop Power-Packed Practice Video That Fans Can’t Stop Watching