Playing his final match as Chennai Super Kings (CSK) captain against Gujarat Titans (GT) on Sunday (May 25) at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, MS Dhoni dropped a massive retirement hint at the toss as speculation over his comeback remains.

Dhoni won the toss and chose to bat first in CSK's last match of the season against the table toppers. The five-time champions need a miracle to avoid a wooden spoon finish for the first time in history. Like has been the case ever since his international retirement in 2020, Dhoni's future is a case of massive speculation and there remains no clarity on whether he will return in 2026.

At the toss of the CSK-GT game, Dhoni was asked about how his body has coped with the challenges of playing the IPL at the age of 43. The CSK skipper gave a candid response and stated it has been challenging and appreciated the work done by the support staff.Dhoni also admitted he is in the last stage of his career. Although, he was not asked about his plans for next year.

""It's surviving. Every year, it's a new challenge, especially, when you are at the last stage of the career. You need maintenance. It didn't trouble me when I was playing international cricket. But thanks to the support staff as well," said Dhoni.

Unless CSK make drastic changes in their plans. This is set to be Dhoni's final game as captain for the franchise and in the IPL. Dhoni handed over the leadership baton to Ruturaj Gaikwad ahead of the 2024 campaign and he remains their full-time skipper. An injury to Ruturaj, which ruled him out of the tournament led to Dhoni leading the side again in the 2025 campaign. Even if Dhoni continues to play for CSK in the 2026 IPL, Ruturaj is expected to take charge of the side.