Chennai Super Kings (CSK) legendary wicket-taker MS Dhoni is all set to make his first appearance in the IPL 2026 season. The 44-year-old could make his much-awaited comeback against Mumbai Indians (MI) in a high-voltage clash at the Wankhede Stadium on April 23.
Notably, MS Dhoni has been sidelined as he suffered a calf strain during the pre-season camp. While he continues to recover, he is now close to full fitness, according to an Indian Express report. He closely followed the team’s home games from the hotel, but actively participated in training and showed steady progress.
MS Dhoni’s gradual return to action
The former ČSK captain participates in light training without visible discomfort. He has been comfortable facing the toss in recent sessions and has even spent time honing his skills with batting coach Mike Hussey. He also had an engaging interaction with left-arm spinner Noor Ahmad.
Bowling coach Sridharan Sriram shared positive observations about Dhoni’s preparation. “MS (Dhoni) had a long chat with him in one of the training sessions to break his leg. So I think it was very helpful for him and the results showed,” Sriram said.
CSK’s next assignment is an away match against Sunrisers Hyderabad, but there is no official word yet on whether Dhoni will travel with the team. His potential debut this season against Mumbai Indians would add huge excitement to the encounter at the Wankhede, a venue known for exciting IPL contests.
Current form and position of ČSK in the table
The Ruturaj Gaikwad-led team is eighth in the IPL 2026 table with two wins and three losses after five matches. CSK suffered a rough patch with three straight defeats early on but have bounced back strongly with wins in their last two home games against Delhi Capitals (DC) and Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR).
The recent 32-run win over Kolkata Knight Riders on Tuesday boosted the morale of the team considerably. However, the team still faces challenges in the lower middle order, where the front-line bowlers often bat from No. 8 upwards. This lack of batting depth could create an opportunity for Dhoni’s inclusion.
Chennai Super Kings Complete Squad
Sanju Samson(w), Ayush Mhatre, Ruturaj Gaikwad(c), Urvil Patel, Matthew Short, Shivam Dube, Jamie Overton, Noor Ahmad, Khaleel Ahmed, Matt Henry, Anshul Kamboj, Akeal Hosein, Sarfaraz Khan, MS Dhoni, Dewald Brevis, Mu Shreyas Chahar Gopal, Aman Khan, Gurjapneet Singh, Zakary Foulkes, Ramakrishna Ghosh, Kartik Sharma, Prashant Veer.
