Chennai Super Kings (CSK) stalwart MS Dhoni is poised to return for his first IPL 2026 appearance on Saturday, with the wicketkeeper-batter expected to face their arch-rivals Mumbai Indians (MI). The 44-year-old has missed the entire season so far due to a calf injury, and his prolonged absence has naturally fuelled plenty of discussion among fans and followers of the franchise. However, just hours before the CSK vs MI showdown at Chepauk, confidence around Dhoni’s return has risen sharply.
Dhoni’s return talk ahead of CSK vs MI
With the match day approaching, former CSK batter Suresh Raina shared a strong hint that Dhoni’s comeback is close. Speaking on JioStar, Raina suggested that Dhoni would be available for the evening fixture against MI—five-time champions—at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai.
Raina’s message was met with excitement on the broadcast, as the host Jatin Sapru reacted that the game would finally bring the fun fans have been waiting for.
Mike Hussey on Dhoni’s calf recovery
On the eve of the contest, CSK batting coach Mike Hussey also addressed Dhoni’s injury status in a pre-match press conference. Hussey said Dhoni’s recovery from the calf problem has been progressing well and that he is likely to be seen back in action soon.
- Hussey said the plan depends on Dhoni’s readiness and that a return could come either immediately or in the next match window, but the recovery has been moving in the right direction.
- He noted that Dhoni has been increasing his running intensity, which was viewed as a key sticking point in the rehabilitation process.
- From a cricketing perspective, Hussey expressed confidence about Dhoni’s skills—highlighting both his batting and his wicketkeeping—as areas where the team feels comfortable.
- He also stressed that the crucial factor is whether Dhoni can sustain the kind of running power needed late in an innings, when quick singles and twos can decide the tempo of the chase or the finish of a competitive total.
- Hussey added that once Dhoni regains confidence in his calf, the “go-ahead” should follow quickly.
Who decides—Dhoni or CSK?
While the coaching staff can monitor the recovery and prepare accordingly, Hussey underlined that the final call belongs to Dhoni. The batting coach explained that the team is currently following Dhoni’s feedback and waiting for him to feel fully assured before signalling that he is ready.
- Hussey said that once Dhoni feels confident, he will give the signal that he is fit to play.
- He added that CSK is guided by Dhoni’s condition and is in a holding pattern until that confidence is confirmed.
- Hussey concluded by noting that the entire Chennai setup is waiting for Dhoni’s return.
(With IANS inputs)
