Former India captain Anil Kumble feels MS Dhoni’s return to action for Chennai Super Kings against Lucknow Super Giants might still be delayed, even though the veteran wicketkeeper-batter has been working hard to get back to full match fitness. The reason, in Kumble’s view, is simple: CSK are unlikely to disturb a lineup that is delivering results.
Quick facts
- Anil Kumble believes MS Dhoni may not play for CSK vs Lucknow Super Giants despite fitness work.
- Kumble says CSK prefer continuity and generally avoid tinkering with a winning XI.
- He revealed Dhoni has been batting more in nets and even practising wicketkeeping there.
- Kumble expects Dhoni may avoid returning immediately if it risks the team’s balance.
- Dhoni injured his knee ahead of IPL 2026 during a practice session and has not played a game this season.
- CSK have recovered after a slow start, winning three of their last four matches.
- CSK sit sixth in the points table with 10 points from 10 matches.
- They can book a playoff spot by winning at least three of their final four matches.
Kumble, speaking in the lead-up to the IPL encounter, highlighted CSK’s mindset around team selection. He described the franchise as one that doesn’t want a run of success to end, adding that they rarely tinker once a combination starts clicking.
The former India spinner also pointed to the extra preparation Dhoni has been putting in away from the spotlight. Kumble said Dhoni has spent considerable time batting during practice, while also taking time for wicketkeeping drills in net sessions.
In Kumble’s telling, the wicketkeeping work in the nets is especially noteworthy because Dhoni is not someone who typically performs that kind of wicketkeeping practice in those sessions. Still, the effort is aimed at getting him back to full readiness as quickly as possible.
Even with that progress, Kumble believes the decorated campaigner may not rush straight back into the playing XI if it threatens the side’s rhythm. With CSK currently performing well, he argued that Dhoni would likely avoid any move that could upset the momentum and the stable player combination that has been helping them win.
Where CSK stand in IPL 2026
Dhoni’s current absence stems from a knee injury sustained ahead of IPL 2026 during a practice session. He has not featured in a single match for CSK so far in the ongoing season.
On the team front, CSK’s turnaround has been encouraging. After an uneven beginning to IPL 2026, they have won three of their last four matches and are placed sixth in the points table, collecting 10 points from 10 games.
With the playoffs in sight, CSK can strengthen their position further by sealing a top-four berth if they win at least three of their remaining four matches. The next test against Lucknow will therefore come at a key moment for a side trying to keep its momentum going.
