Chennai Super Kings are yet to taste victory in IPL 2026, with the franchise now sitting at the very bottom of the points table after three straight defeats. Led by Ruturaj Gaikwad, the five-time champions have struggled to get their campaign back on track following a disappointing end to IPL 2025, where they finished last. This season’s issues have been visible not only in the top order, but also in the absence of MS Dhoni, one of the most iconic figures in franchise cricket.
Dhoni’s injury update ahead of CSK vs Delhi Capitals
The 44-year-old wicketkeeper-batter has missed the first three matches of the tournament while recovering from a calf strain. While supporters are eager to see him return, the latest information suggests Dhoni may be forced to sit out CSK’s next big assignment against Delhi Capitals. The fixture is set to be played at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai on April 11.
Dhoni’s recovery is being managed through a rehabilitation programme, and he is reportedly not expected to be fully match-ready immediately. The current expectation is that he will require at least another week to regain complete fitness. Even so, CSK remain hopeful that he could be back in contention for the clash against Kolkata Knight Riders on April 18.
Brevis fitness concerns add to CSK’s selection headaches
In addition to Dhoni’s calf problem, CSK are also monitoring an injury concern involving their South African batter Dewald Brevis. The franchise’s management has offered cautious optimism, suggesting that Brevis is trending in the right direction as the team looks to balance playing XI options over the coming matches.
- CSK CEO Kasi Viswanathan said that Dhoni is still in rehab and that the timetable is uncertain.
- Viswanathan added that the team is hoping Brevis will be available for the next match, but his participation will depend on how his recovery progresses.
- Viswanathan noted that CSK have a few days ahead of their next fixture to assess the situation.
Coach Stephen Fleming on Brevis and the gap between matches
Head coach Stephen Fleming also addressed Brevis’s availability, indicating the batter is close to full recovery and is expected to be in the mix for the game against Delhi Capitals. Fleming pointed to the time window between fixtures, suggesting CSK have built in a conservative approach to ensure the player is ready.
- Fleming said CSK are hoping Brevis will be “right for the next game.”
- He highlighted that there are five days between the upcoming match, giving the team time to manage his return properly.
- Fleming explained that CSK have been careful with his workload and are optimistic that those five days will go according to plan.
- He added that while it is a “big loss” to be without the player, the staff is looking forward to getting him back once he is fit.
Fleming’s comments came after CSK’s defeat to RCB, as the team continues to work through multiple fitness concerns while trying to secure their first win of the season.
