Chennai Super Kings fast bowler Mukesh Choudhary turned out for IPL 2026 against Mumbai Indians in Mumbai on Thursday, showing resolve in the face of personal tragedy. Choudhary’s mother, Prem Devi, passed away just days earlier, and he returned to the CSK setup after completing the last rites in Bhilwara, Rajasthan—arriving back on the eve of the match.
Tribute to Prem Devi and CSK’s show of support
In a mark of respect, the CSK squad wore black armbands during the game against MI. The franchise also conveyed condolences on X, saying the CSK family mourned Prem Devi’s passing and stood with Mukesh and his family, keeping them in thoughts and prayers during an extremely difficult period.
- Choudhary travelled to Bhilwara, Rajasthan, after CSK’s match versus Sunrisers Hyderabad on Saturday.
- He conducted the last rites for his mother and returned to the CSK camp ahead of the MI clash.
- CSK players wore black armbands as a tribute, aiming to honour Prem Devi’s memory and stand by Mukesh during his time of grief.
Choudhary’s IPL journey and recent impact
Despite losing his mother, Choudhary rejoined the squad and was named in the playing XI against Mumbai Indians. This was only his second appearance in IPL 2026, and he had already made an impact earlier in the season.
- In IPL 2026, Choudhary played one match before this fixture and took two key wickets: Travis Head and Ishan Kishan against Sunrisers Hyderabad.
- Choudhary made his IPL debut for CSK in 2022, finishing that campaign with 16 wickets.
- Across 17 IPL matches overall, he has claimed 19 wickets, with best bowling figures of 4/46.
- Known for his ability to swing the new ball, he has built his reputation around early breakthroughs.
Match setup: toss, playing XI changes and MI’s injury blow
On the match night, CSK captain Ruturaj Gaikwad lost the toss. Mumbai Indians, led by Hardik Pandya, opted to field first and asked CSK to bat.
- Ruturaj Gaikwad lost the toss; Hardik Pandya’s MI chose to bowl first.
- Mumbai fielded the same playing XI as in their previous game.
- Because of a hamstring injury, Rohit Sharma missed his third straight match.
Dhoni’s absence with calf strain
While the spotlight remained on Choudhary’s return, another major storyline surrounded MS Dhoni. The veteran wicketkeeper-batter has not yet fully recovered from a calf strain and did not take part in this high-profile encounter.
- MS Dhoni is still dealing with a calf strain and was left out of the MI vs CSK match.
- The 44-year-old had been training with the squad ahead of the contest.
- He continues to wait for his first appearance of the IPL 2026 season.
