Guwahati: Rajasthan Royals all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja revealed why he did not speak to former teammate MS Dhoni ahead of his emotional reunion with Chennai Super Kings in IPL 2026.

Jadeja, who switched to Rajasthan Royals before the season, faced his long-time franchise in the opening clash. However, fans missed the iconic Jadeja-Dhoni interaction, as Dhoni did not travel with the CSK squad due to injury.

“Mahi bhai phone band rakhte hain”

Addressing the much-anticipated reunion, Jadeja candidly explained why he didn’t reach out to Dhoni before the match.

“Baat nahi hui, kyunki Mahi bhai phone band hi rakhte hain (Did not speak with Mahi bhai as he keeps his phone off),” Jadeja said.

He added that he looks forward to catching up properly when they meet in person.

“Jab bhi main milunga Mahi bhai se toh khoob saari baatein karunga,” he said, reflecting the strong bond the two share.

Emotional return against CSK

Having spent over a decade with CSK, Jadeja admitted the match was emotionally charged.

“Leaving a franchise like CSK, where I had played for 12–13 years, was a little difficult initially. It was very emotional,” he said.

Jadeja was a key part of CSK’s title-winning campaigns in 2018, 2021, and 2023, contributing with bat, ball, and his exceptional fielding.

Back where it all began

Interestingly, the move to Rajasthan Royals marks a return to Jadeja’s roots. He was part of RR’s historic IPL 2008 title-winning squad, where his IPL journey began.

“The good thing is I am now with the team where I first won an IPL title. Those memories have always stayed with me,” he said.

Jadeja emphasised that he is embracing the change with a positive mindset and is eager to contribute to the new team environment.

Adapting to a new chapter

While joking about switching from CSK’s iconic yellow to RR’s pink, Jadeja made it clear that transitions are part of a cricketer’s journey.

His focus now, he said, is on learning from the new group while sharing his experience with younger players.

Conclusion

Ravindra Jadeja’s absence of communication with MS Dhoni before the match may have surprised fans, but his explanation perfectly reflects Dhoni’s well-known off-field habits. As Jadeja begins a new chapter with Rajasthan Royals, the emotional ties with CSK—and Dhoni—remain as strong as ever.