Legendary wicketkeeper-batsman MS Dhoni was spotted wearing the Mumbai Indians (MI) training jersey, and the image quickly went viral, sparking debate among fans across social media platforms. The Chennai Super Kings (CSK) captain played a casual football match with friends before posing for a photo.
Dhoni has followed a predictable routine since his retirement from international cricket. After spending months focusing on rehabilitation, the wicketkeeper-batsman assesses his fitness and confirms his involvement with the franchise, rejoining the team in Chennai about a month ahead of the new IPL season for training.
MS Dhoni seen wearing Mumbai Indians jersey ahead of IPL 2026 auction
MS Dhoni was seen wearing a Mumbai Indians training jersey during a casual football match. Entrepreneur Arjun Vaidya shared the image on social media with the caption, “Football game with MS.” In the picture, Dhoni posed with friends next to the football pitch.
CSK fans were shocked and confused, given Dhoni’s long association with the franchise and the fierce CSK-MI rivalry. Some fans also suggested the inclusion of one player, Rohit Sharma, while others speculated that Dhoni could join Mumbai Indians ahead of IPL 2026.
However, the reports clarified that there is no truth to the transfer rumours. Dhoni’s deep bond with CSK and his integral role in the franchise is a step up for any rival side.
Fans react to viral picture of MS Dhoni in Mumbai Indians jersey
MS Dhoni has been the heart of Chennai Super Kings since the inaugural season of the IPL in 2008, playing a major role in building the franchise’s huge fan base.
Dhoni is already involved in CSK’s pre-season plans. He played for Rising Pune Supergiant during CSK’s suspension, which was the only time he wore a jersey other than yellow. The legendary cricketer is unlikely to represent any other team in his IPL career.
One user wrote, “Dream come true. At least off the field, Thala Dhoni wears Mumbai Indians shirt.”
Another said, “MS Dhoni wearing an MI jersey. 2025 is not a normal calendar year.”
wash me pic.twitter.com/38tlqhnwbs
– Vikramsingh Deora Cures (@deora40676) October 7, 2025
Dhoni bhai ni Mumbai Indian JOIN KAR LIYA
– realChaudhary315 (@chaudh31397) October 7, 2025
I wrote a poem for Ambani’s son’s wedding, wrote a long post, sang a song, wearing Ambani’s team jersey is such a bad thing.
– stubby (@spideypant_) October 7, 2025
PALTANS Would you accept Dhoni as MI player in his last season?? pic.twitter.com/jzypwt6vnf
– Mumbai Indians FC (@mipaltanfamily) October 7, 2025
So finally MS Dhoni in Mumbai Indian jersey.. even if playing football.. pic.twitter.com/m9zabp8fpb
– rofl.ai (@rofl_india) October 7, 2025
Dhoni wore MI jersey, dream came true @mipaltan After 17 years pic.twitter.com/ewfjhvv65e
– rocket.jadeja (@sherjedeja) October 7, 2025
Fans need to stop this nonsense brotherhood talk, Dhoni wearing an MI jersey goes against everything this rivalry means. pic.twitter.com/6H19WU9FAX
– 91 no (@dhoni_inspires) October 7, 2025
MS Dhoni forced to lead Chennai Super Kings in IPL 2025
Earlier this year, MS Dhoni returned as CSK captain midway through IPL 2025 after Ruturaj Gaikwad was sidelined with an elbow injury. However, Chennai endured one of their worst campaigns, finishing at the bottom of the table with just four wins from 14 matches.
Dhoni scored only 196 runs at an average of 24.50 and a strike rate of 135.17, with a highest score of 30*. Head coach Stephen Fleming also admitted, “He can’t bat for a full 10 overs.”
With IPL 2026 mini-around the corner, CSK are expected to rebuild their squad. Dhoni, who was retained for ₹4 crore as an uncapped player last season, can still play a key role in the rebuilding phase of the franchise, be it as a player, mentor or strategic leader.
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