Chennai Super Kings batting coach Michael Hussey has given an update on MS Dhoni’s return in IPL 2026 after the veteran was sidelined with a calf injury. Dhoni is yet to feature in the tournament but has recently returned to training, including wicket practice in the nets.
On Tuesday, April 21, CSK shared a video of Dhoni practicing with his gloves, appearing in good spirits and even playfully reacting after taking a stumble in the nets. The clip has sparked optimism among fans about a possible comeback against MI on Thursday, although he didn’t get into the match in the end.
Hussey added that Dhoni is progressing well and batting strongly in the nets, but still needs to regain full fitness, especially his ability to run hard between the wickets, before being considered for a return in the upcoming matches.
“He’s progressing really well. I know he’s pushing hard to get back as soon as possible and the fans are dying to see MS Dhoni back on the field. We’re hoping it could be in the next few games but he needs to be close to 100% to get the most out of him. He’s batting well in the nets and looks in good touch, now he’s able to run hard between the yers as well.
‘DHONI BATTING REALLY WELL’
Hussey also said that if Dhoni returns, it will be as a wicketkeeper rather than just a batsman or Impact Sub. He stressed that Dhoni needs to manage his calf carefully to ensure that he can run quick singles and doubles in the death over. Hussey added that Dhoni is hitting the ball cleanly into the nets and his return now largely depends on the condition of his calf.
“I’m pretty sure he’ll be back behind the stumps. The main concern is the calf injury, it’s about running, especially late in the innings when he might need to push hard on the ones and twos. He just needs to make sure the calf is strong enough to handle that workload. From a skill point of view, we know exactly what MS Dhoni can do as a wicketkeeper at full speed. that calf.” Hussey added.
As for CSK, they handed MI the biggest defeat in IPL history with an impressive 103 run victory at the Wankhede Stadium. With the win, CSK moved up to fifth in the table with six points and a net pace of 0.118, having won three out of seven matches.
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Issued by:
sabyasachi chowdhury
Published on:
24 Apr 2026 03:00 IST
