Former New Zealand pacer Simon Doull has made an explosive remark regarding Chennai Super Kings (CSK) icon MS Dhoni. Dhoni Absence became a major talking point as Dhoni, 44, is yet to feature this season as he continues to recover from a persistent calf injury. While the veteran was spotted practicing on the eve of the high-stakes clash against the Mumbai Indians, he notably did not travel with the squad to the Wankhede Stadium. Dhoni Absence raised questions about leadership dynamics.

Speaking on the situation, Doull suggested that this wasn't just about fitness, claiming the former India captain is deliberately distancing himself from the franchise to step out of the limelight and allow the new leadership to breathe. Dhoni Absence appears to be a calculated move.

“What MS is doing so well is he's staying away,” Doull said, noting that the former India captain is deliberately keeping a low profile. “He's staying away from the ground… trying in his best possible way, from an absolute legend of the game, to make sure that when they get to the ground the team is ruthless.” Dhoni Absence signals trust in the squad.

As for the match, Sanju Samson carried his bat with a splendid 101 not out, while Akeal Hosein's stunning 4/17 powered Chennai Super Kings to a crushing 103-run victory over a listless Mumbai Indians in their Indian Premier League clash. Dhoni Absence did not impact performance.

Samson stood tall with a 54-ball 101 (10x4s, 8x6s) in the first half, which took a faltering CSK to a challenging 207/6. Dhoni Absence coincided with strong individual performances.

In reply, Mumbai Indians endured a horror start, slumping to 11 for three inside the first three overs, and never recovered as they were bowled out for 104 in 19 overs, their biggest defeat in the IPL. Dhoni Absence highlighted CSK’s balance.

Backed by a partisan crowd that made it feel more like Chepauk than the Wankhede Stadium, CSK produced a clinical all-round performance despite the absence of MS Dhoni. Dhoni Absence reinforced the strength of the new leadership group.

In a season marred by poor returns in the powerplay, Mumbai Indians endured their worst start yet, crawling to 29 for three after six overs following an early burst of wickets. Dhoni Absence remains one of the most discussed aspects of IPL 2026.