Gavaskar doubts MS Dhoni return for Chennai Super Kings vs Sunrisers Hyderabad after a year out, CSK need match-fit players. He called Riyan Parag’s use of Donovan Ferreira in RR vs DC 18th over “suicidal” and praised Mitchell Starc’s death bowling. KL Rahul’s 56 helped Delhi Capitals beat Rajasthan Royals; playoff race CSK, SRH, PBKS.

New Delhi: Former India cricketer Sunil Gavaskar has cast serious doubt over the possibility of MS Dhoni making a surprise return for Chennai Super Kings in their must-win clash against Sunrisers Hyderabad on Monday, saying the legendary former captain would not want to take such a risk after being away from competitive cricket for more than a year.

Gavaskar said CSK’s clash against SRH at Chepauk carries massive importance in the playoff race, but believes Dhoni is unlikely to feature despite fans hoping to see him in the side for the final home game of the season.

“The match against SRH is a crucial one for CSK. It's their last home game at Chepauk, so naturally fans want to see MS Dhoni play. But he hasn't featured at all this season. In fact, he hasn't played competitive cricket for over a year. So, I doubt he would want to take such a risk at this stage,” Gavaskar told JioStar.

The former India captain stressed that CSK would need players who are already in rhythm and match-ready during such a crucial stage of the tournament.