MS Dhoni (BCCI/IPL Photo) A glimmer of hope surrounding MS Dhoni’s return to the Chennai Super Kings line-up on Wednesday quickly turned into fresh disappointment after reports confirmed that the veteran has not traveled with the team to Lucknow for their crucial clash against Lucknow Super Giants.Dhoni, who has so far missed the entire IPL 2026 due to a calf problem, has reportedly been booked to travel with the team. The detail sparked widespread speculation that the former captain was finally nearing a comeback. By evening, however, this story had changed.
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Jamie Overton opens up on CSK’s comeback and bowling roleAccording to Cricbuzz reports, Dhoni ultimately decided not to make the trip despite travel arrangements being made, leaving fans once again waiting for his first appearance of the season.Morning hope, evening twistThe first update from the CSK camp suggested that Dhoni’s travel ticket has been booked to Lucknow, which immediately raised expectations among the fans. While traveling with the squad would not guarantee a place in the playing XI, it would be the strongest sign yet that the 44-year-old is getting closer to re-engaging in match-day action.This in itself was of immense significance given Dhoni’s absence from the start of the IPL 2026 campaign.But the evening brought a sharp turn. Reports said that the ticket had indeed been arranged, but Dhoni opted out at the last minute, killing any hope of even a token return to the unit environment.The injury is still delaying his returnDhoni is recovering from a calf strain, one of several injury setbacks that have plagued CSK this season.The franchise has already lost Ramakrishna Ghosh, Khaleel Ahmed and Ayush Mhatre to injuries while Nathan Ellis has missed the start of the season.CSK also announced the signing of Macneil Noronha as Ghosh’s replacement on Wednesday, but Dhoni’s status remained the dominant talking point.The five-time champions have steadied their season and remain in contention for the playoffs, but Dhoni’s absence continues to overshadow every squad update.For now, however, the wait continues. CSK will take on LSG without their iconic former captain and it is unclear when Dhoni might finally take the field in IPL 2026.
