MS Dhoni's "Shisha" secret exposed as Sam Billings reveals Thala's private hotel room habit ahead of IPL 2026

The Chennai Super Kings (CSK) will play their first match of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 on March 30 against the Rajasthan Royals (RR) in Guwahati. CSK, one of the most successful franchises in the IPL, have not qualified for the playoffs in the last two seasons. Hence, this season becomes extremely crucial for them. They have played in the IPL final ten times in 17 seasons and hence, are one of the most dominating teams in the tournament.

When we talk about the 5-times champions, the name MS Dhoni is synonymous with it. The former skipper is not only one of the best players in the tournament, but he is also one of the best captains. Under give, the franchise has won five titles, which is commendable. While speaking on a podcast, Sam Billings revealed that the former captain is into 'shisha' and also has an attendant as well. 

Ex CSK star shares how Khaleel manages a private hookah setup for Dhoni to help him unwind

Sam Billings, the former CSK player, opened up about how Dhoni likes to have his shisha and has a specific person to take care of it. While speaking on the Stick to Cricket podcast, the former CSK player revealed what the world already knew about Dhoni. 

"He (Dhoni) leaves his hotel room open, and he has this little "shisha man" in his entourage who looks after the shisha. His sole job is to look after the shisha. Khaleel," revealed Billings, speaking on the Stick to Cricket podcast. 

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Earlier as well, many former CSK players have openly spoken about the former captain's habit of having shisha. He carries it everywhere with him and then has it with the other teammates who are interested. Billings mentioned that this is their kind of socialising with each other and taking pressure off in between matches. 

Why the legendary captains open door room remains the ultimate team bonding hub this season

The Englishman also opened up about how MS Dhoni always leaves his hotel room open for the players. The former skipper has always advised juniors and newcomers, and he is always seen talking to players after every match. This shows how much players respect him and everything he has done for the sport. 

"He is a Manchester United fan. We watched every United game because you can't leave the hotel and go downstairs to the hotel bar. He leaves his hotel room open. He has a little shisha man who looks after the shisha," Billings said.

CSK's former player and coach, Mike Hussey, also opened up about how MS Dhoni is quite welcoming and always keeps the door open for the players to come and talk to him. He is one of the best players who is an inspiration for many budding players. 

"His room is available, open 24 hours a day. Anyone can go up there and just sit. Players just sit around, they start talking cricket, and some of them like the shisha. That is their way of socialising," Hussey recalled.