As IPL 2026 approaches, MS Dhoni has already begun preparing with full focus. The Chennai Super Kings icon knows that at 44, preparation is not optional, it is essential. With CSK relying heavily on his experience once again, Dhoni has quietly started a disciplined training routine in Ranchi. After retiring from international cricket in 2020, Dhoni plays competitive cricket only during the IPL season, which makes fitness and match readiness even more important.
Videos of him riding bikes around Ranchi with his kit bag have caught attention, but behind the scenes, his IPL 2026 preparation is serious and structured. From gym work to batting practice, wicket keeping drills, and swimming, Dhoni is leaving nothing to chance as CSK gear up for another title push.
Why IPL 2026 Preparation Is Crucial for CSK and Dhoni?
For MS Dhoni, IPL 2026 carries extra importance, both personally and for CSK. At this stage of his career, maintaining fitness after long inactive periods is the biggest challenge. Being away from professional cricket for nearly 10 months every year affects timing, reflexes, and stamina. Dhoni understands this better than anyone.
CSK’s squad composition has also made his role more significant. With no Ravindra Jadeja or Sam Curran in the lineup, Dhoni remains the most experienced finisher in the team. His calm presence at the crease and leadership on the field are vital for CSK’s balance. IPL 2026 is less about volume and more about impact, and Dhoni’s preparation reflects that mindset.
MS Dhoni’s Training Schedule at Ranchi Stadium:
Dhoni has chosen the Jharkhand State Cricket Association Stadium in Ranchi for his IPL 2026 preparation. According to officials, he has been training regularly since October, with strict focus on routine and discipline. His day follows a fixed structure, allowing him to train hard without overloading his body.
| Time | Training Activity |
| 1:30 pm | Arrival at JSCA Stadium |
| 1:45–2:45 pm | Gym and strength training |
| 3:00–4:30 pm | Batting practice and net sessions |
| 4:30–5:30 pm | Wicket keeping drills |
| 6:00 pm | Leaves stadium |
| Evening | 1 hour swimming session |
Above is a look at Dhoni’s daily training schedule. This routine helps Dhoni stay consistent and IPL ready for CSK.
Batting Focus and Match Simulation for IPL 2026:
Batting remains a major part of Dhoni’s IPL 2026 preparation. Reports suggest he is working on adding new options to his power hitting, especially for late over situations where CSK often depend on him. Instead of only practicing big shots, Dhoni is using match simulation drills to recreate real IPL scenarios.
- Match simulation replicates IPL pressure moments
- Focus on death overs and finishing roles
- Emphasis on timing instead of brute force
- Decision making tested in realistic condition
These sessions test his decision making under pressure, fatigue, and limited deliveries. Dhoni is focusing more on timing and placement rather than raw strength, a natural adjustment with age. This approach allows him to remain effective without risking injury.
Wicket Keeping Practice and Impact Player Possibility:
Another key part of Dhoni’s routine is wicket keeping. He has been spending long hours behind the stumps, which suggests he may not start IPL 2026 purely as an Impact Player for CSK. Wicket keeping is physically demanding, especially for someone with recurring knee issues, but Dhoni is managing it carefully.
His continued work behind the stumps highlights his commitment to team balance. For CSK, Dhoni’s presence as a wicket keeper adds leadership, tactical awareness, and calmness during tense moments. While workload management remains important, his preparation suggests readiness for a full role.
Swimming and Recovery as a Fitness Strategy:
Recovery plays a major role in Dhoni’s IPL 2026 preparation. After leaving the stadium around 6 pm, he includes an hour of intense swimming in his daily routine. Swimming is a low impact exercise that helps maintain fitness without putting stress on the knees and joints.
- Swimming reduces pressure on joints
- Improves stamina and flexibility
- Helps faster recovery after training
- Ideal fitness tool for long tournaments
For Dhoni, this method improves endurance, flexibility, and muscle recovery while reducing injury risk. It reflects how he has adapted his training over the years. Instead of heavy running or high impact drills, he focuses on sustainable fitness that supports a long IPL season.
Dhoni’s Leadership Role in CSK Beyond Performance:
Even if numbers do not always reflect it, Dhoni’s influence on CSK remains unmatched. With young players like Prashant Veer and Kartik Sharma likely to bat in the lower middle order during IPL 2026, Dhoni’s guidance becomes crucial. His calmness in pressure situations often shapes match outcomes.
His disciplined preparation also sets an example. Younger CSK players see first hand what commitment looks like. Dhoni understands that leadership is shown through action, not words, and his IPL 2026 routine reflects that belief.
Conclusion:
MS Dhoni’s preparation for IPL 2026 shows why he remains central to CSK’s plans. At 44, he is training smarter, not harder, focusing on fitness, batting, wicket keeping, and recovery in equal measure. His daily routine in Ranchi highlights discipline, awareness, and respect for the game. Whether IPL 2026 turns out to be his final season or not, Dhoni’s commitment to CSK remains unchanged. Calm, focused, and methodical, he is once again preparing for the moments that define the IPL.
FAQs:
MS Dhoni is training at the JSCA Stadium in Ranchi.
He usually arrives at the stadium around 1:30 pm.
He is focusing equally on fitness, batting, and match simulation.
His training suggests he is preparing to keep wickets regularly.
Swimming helps him stay fit while protecting his knees and joints.
Kiran is a cricket analyst and writer with strong expertise in the Indian Premier League and modern cricket. He closely follows match situations, player performances, team strategies, and season trends to deliver clear and accurate insights. Passionate about the game, Kiran enjoys exploring emerging talents, tracking auction movements, and sharing timely updates related to IPL and competitive cricket.
