Overview
- Clarke, speaking on the Beyond23 Cricket Podcast on Thursday, urged fans and media not to push MS Dhoni toward retirement and said the decision rests with the player.
- Dhoni, 44, has missed every Chennai Super Kings game in IPL 2026 while rehabbing a calf strain picked up before the season.
- CSK head coach Stephen Fleming warned after the April 26 match that a re-tear could end Dhoni’s season, which explains the team’s caution on any return.
- Clarke called Dhoni “CSK,” pointing to his pull with fans and sponsors, and said the veteran can still help the side without a larger batting role.
- Reports have speculated about a May 18 retirement announcement, but neither Dhoni nor CSK has confirmed any plan.