MS Dhoni is gearing up intensely for the IPL 2026 season, with reports confirming that the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) icon has been training for up to four-and-a-half hours every day. A few days ago, CSK CEO Kasi Viswanathan put all retirement rumours to rest by confirming that Dhoni will continue in the league, giving fans a massive boost ahead of the 2026 mini-auction.

The upcoming season is being widely viewed as Dhoni’s “one last hurrah” with CSK, with several former players suggesting he may even take a call on retirement mid-season. While such speculation remains unverified, what is certain is the intensity of Dhoni’s preparation.

According to a report by the Times of India, Dhoni has been training consistently since September, putting in long hours despite age and recent injury concerns. The former India captain has been visiting the Jharkhand State Cricket Association (JSCA) International Stadium in Ranchi for the last two months, maintaining a strict routine.

A JSCA official told TOI that Dhoni reaches the stadium around 1:30 pm and begins his session with one hour in the gym. This is followed by two hours of batting practice in the nets, with a major emphasis on power-hitting—an area Dhoni focuses on since he usually faces only a few balls in IPL matches.

Whenever possible, especially when Ranji Trophy matches are not underway, Dhoni also undertakes match-simulation sessions on the centre wicket. He wraps up his training with a 30-minute swimming session before leaving the stadium at around 6 pm.

“His routine has been fixed for the last two months. He comes at 1:30 pm, hits the gym, then pads up for two hours of power-hitting. If the centre wicket is free, he does match simulations. Mahi signs out after half an hour of swimming and leaves at 6 pm,” the official added.

Dhoni’s disciplined preparations underline his determination to stay match-fit as he eyes one more impactful season with CSK in IPL 2026.