MS Dhoni is expected to make his much-awaited return in the Indian Premier League 2026 season on April 23, when Chennai Super Kings (CSK) face Mumbai Indians at the Wankhede Stadium, according to media reports.
The veteran cricketer has missed the first five matches of the season due to injury.
Injury Update and Recovery Progress
Dhoni has been sidelined with a calf injury, which has kept him away from:
- Match participation
- Away fixtures with the team
He has been recovering in Chennai and is reportedly close to regaining full fitness.
Uncertainty Over Hyderabad Match
There is still no confirmation whether MS Dhoni will:
- Travel with the squad for the upcoming match against Sunrisers Hyderabad
- Feature in the playing XI before the April 23 clash
At present, his return is unlikely for the Hyderabad game.
Active Behind the Scenes
Despite missing matches, Dhoni has remained actively involved:
- Attended training sessions at Chepauk
- Participated in light batting practice (throwdowns)
- Mentored players during nets
Notably, his interaction with young spinner Noor Ahmad reportedly helped improve performance in a recent match.
CSK’s Mixed Start to IPL 2026
Chennai Super Kings had a challenging start:
- Lost first three matches
- Bounced back with two consecutive wins at home
- Currently rebuilding momentum in the tournament
The team will next face Sunrisers Hyderabad on April 18.
Why Dhoni’s Return Matters
The return of MS Dhoni could be a major boost for CSK:
- Adds leadership and experience
- Strengthens middle-order stability
- Boosts team morale and fan confidence
