MS Dhoni (Image credit: BCCI/IPL) NEW DELHI: The big question dominating the run-up to Chennai Super Kings’ high-voltage clash against Mumbai Indians is a simple one – will MS Dhoni finally play in IPL 2026?CSK batting coach Michael Hussey has offered an encouraging update, revealing that the former skipper is making steady progress in his recovery from a calf injury that has kept him out for the past three weeks.“Hopefully he’ll be back as soon as possible. I don’t know if it’ll be tomorrow or maybe the next game after that, but he’s progressing really well,” Hussey said on the eve of the clash against Chepauk.Recovery on track but final call with DhoniHussey stressed that while Dhoni’s skills remain intact, the focus has been on regaining full running fitness – especially important in the closing innings of the innings.“I know he’s been increasing his run rate and that’s probably been the main problem. I think we’re very confident in terms of skill with his batting and his wicket,” Hussey explained.“But it was just reassurance that he can maintain good running power, especially at the end of the innings where he’s going to have to look for singles and doubles. So once he gets the confidence in his calf, I’m sure he’ll give him the tick to be ready to go.”However, the decision ultimately rests with Dhoni himself. “Once he feels confident in his calf, I’m sure he’ll signal that he’s ready to go. We’re led by him at the moment. We’re waiting. I think the whole of Chennai is waiting,” added Hussey.Stay away to avoid distractionsInterestingly, Dhoni was not present in the dugout during the matches – a deliberate choice to keep the focus away from the team.“He is such a team-oriented guy, MS Dhoni. He always wants the best for the team and he was afraid that if he came, it would be too much of a distraction,” revealed Hussey.“Obviously there would be a lot of cameras on him. The crowd would be rooting for him … he really wanted the team to be able to do their job.”Despite his absence on match days, Dhoni remains actively involved behind the scenes. “He keeps a very close eye on it at home. He trains all the time … he’s a bubbly personality and offers a lot of his experience,” Hussey said.
