Chennai Super Kings are still without a definitive timetable for MS Dhoni’s comeback as they steer through IPL 2026 without their former captain. Dhoni picked up a calf injury shortly before the start of the season, and though the franchise initially talked about a recovery window of around two weeks, his return has now dragged into the fourth week with no confirmed date set for his next appearance.
A small wave of optimism briefly surfaced on Tuesday after Dhoni was spotted training at the Wankhede Stadium. The veteran wicketkeeper-batter spent a significant period working on his batting in the nets and also completed wicketkeeping drills, fueling speculation that he might be available for CSK’s upcoming fixture against Mumbai Indians. That optimism, however, was quickly cooled by the team’s own message as the match approached.
What CSK said on Dhoni’s availability
- With reporters in front of him ahead of the encounter, CSK bowling coach Eric Simmons stressed that there would be no hurried call on Dhoni’s return.
- Simmons said Dhoni will only play once he feels ready and the medical staff clears him, adding that he would not announce anything from his position before those conditions are met.
The uncertainty around Dhoni’s fitness arrives while CSK are already managing a number of other injury problems. Fast bowler Khaleel Ahmed has been ruled out of the tournament after suffering a right quadriceps injury. In addition, Ayush Mhatre, a top-order batter, has also been sidelined for the remainder of the season due to a hamstring issue.
CSK have not officially announced replacement signings yet, though there have been indications of activity behind the scenes. Reports suggest that former Mumbai Indians pacer Akash Madhwal attended CSK’s trials in Hyderabad, while Rajvardhan Hangargekar is also believed to have participated in a trial session with the franchise in Mumbai.
How the injuries are affecting CSK’s IPL 2026 run
- These disruptions have weighed on CSK’s campaign, leaving them in eighth position in the points table.
- The side has managed two wins from their first four matches.
- After suffering defeats in their opening three fixtures, CSK regained momentum with back-to-back victories at home.
- That revival was dented in their latest match, when they fell to Sunrisers Hyderabad.
CSK will face Mumbai Indians next, with the visitors arriving with fresh confidence. Mumbai Indians are placed just above CSK in seventh spot and are coming off a commanding 99-run victory over Gujarat Titans, giving them strong momentum heading into the clash.
