Mitchell McClenaghan believes MS Dhoni’s return to action for Chennai Super Kings in IPL 2026 should come as an impact option if the wicketkeeper-batter is declared fit, pointing to the advantage of using him in a role that minimises running while maximising his finishing skills. Dhoni has been sidelined by a calf problem that kept him out of the opening stretch of the tournament, but he was seen taking part in Chennai’s practice at Chepauk on Monday, albeit at a limited intensity.
Dhoni’s calf concern and the case for an impact role
With a calf injury ruling Dhoni out during the first two weeks, McClenaghan’s view is that Chennai should consider deploying him against Kolkata Knight Riders on Tuesday. The former New Zealand fast bowler argued that if Dhoni is available, he could be introduced as an impact player—particularly when CSK are in chase mode—so the team gets a quick burst of batting without asking him to cover too much ground.
- McClenaghan said that if MS Dhoni is fit, Chennai should use him as the impact player versus Kolkata Knight Riders on Tuesday.
- He suggested the move could be especially useful when CSK are chasing, giving the side an efficient way to use Dhoni’s batting strengths.
- He added that as an impact substitute, Dhoni would likely need to do “a lot less running,” aligning with the recovery needs after his calf issue.
McClenaghan made the comments on Star Sports’ ‘Amul Cricket Live’ programme.
What Dhoni did in training at Chepauk
On Monday, Dhoni took part in a short session at Chepauk under the lights, but his work was limited as he stayed within a controlled routine. He was reported to have faced throwdowns from the support staff near the end of CSK’s training session, rather than going through a full hitting phase. Among those involved with the throwdowns was batting coach Mike Hussey.
- Dhoni took part in CSK’s nets session under lights at Chepauk on Monday.
- His batting was restricted to throwdowns from the support staff, including batting coach Mike Hussey.
- He has continued training with his teammates, but has not yet gone “full tilt.”
How many games Dhoni has missed, and what Chennai needs
Dhoni has already missed the first four matches for CSK and may also miss the fifth appearance on Tuesday. He has not travelled with the squad for the away fixtures, nor has he been present for the home games at Chepauk, with the expectation that he will extend his absence to a fifth straight match.
- Dhoni has been absent from CSK’s first four games of IPL 2026.
- He is also likely to miss the fifth game on Tuesday.
- He has not accompanied the team for away matches and has not featured in Chepauk home fixtures so far.
Even so, McClenaghan outlined a potential pathway for Dhoni’s return that focuses on immediate impact. In his assessment, Dhoni can enter, attack the ball aggressively, and do the job expected from him in the closing overs—especially when Chennai is chasing a target. He believes Dhoni’s aggressive strokeplay would be valuable in high-pressure chases and that his presence could strengthen the lower-middle order for CSK.
- McClenaghan said Dhoni could “come in, smack the ball into the stands” and finish in style if selected.
- He highlighted Dhoni’s aggressive hitting as a weapon for Chennai during chases of big totals.
- He felt bringing Dhoni back via an impact-like approach could help the veteran regain rhythm.
- He added that Dhoni’s availability would bring “a lot of strength” to CSK’s lower middle order.
CSK’s recent form: first win after a three-match skid
Chennai’s discussion comes after a difficult patch of results. The franchise had suffered three defeats in a row before securing a turnaround on Sunday against Delhi Capitals. In that match, Sanju Samson played a key role with an unbeaten 115, while Jamie Overton delivered a standout bowling effort of 4 for 18 to help set up CSK’s first win following the losing streak.
- CSK lost three games consecutively before ending the run with a win on Sunday.
- They beat Delhi Capitals in that match.
- Sanju Samson made 115 not out.
- Jamie Overton took 4 wickets for 18 runs.
CSK vs KKR on Tuesday
Chennai Super Kings will face Kolkata Knight Riders on Tuesday in their IPL 2026 Rivalry Week fixture, with the match scheduled for 7:30 PM. The game is set to be available live on JioHotstar and on the Star Sports Network.
