Chennai, May 19 -- Chennai Super Kings (CSK) head coach Stephen Fleming said that although MS Dhoni has not yet played in the Indian Premier League (IPL) IPL 2026, the veteran wicketkeeper-batter has continued to have a big influence on the team, adding that his presence around the team has been extremely important.

The Ruturaj Gaikwad-led CSK played their final home game of the season on Monday at Chepauka, and their hopes of qualifying for the IPL 2026 playoffs were dealt a major blow after they were defeated by Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) by five wickets.

Notably, Dhoni, who has yet to feature in any of CSK's matches this season, was expected to return to the playing 11 for the clash against SRH. However, the 44-year-old, who is recove...