There is a new update on MS Dhoni’s availability for Chennai Super Kings in IPL 2026. The former CSK captain, who has won five IPL titles for the team as captain, has not played in any of CSK’s 9 matches in IPL 2026. He is working to recover from a calf strain he suffered at the beginning of the season.
In the last few matches, Dhoni has been trying to increase his workload again by practicing both keeping and batting in the nets, but has not really been seen on the field. Now, an unnamed member of the CSK management has provided an update on his fitness.
key points
- MS Dhoni has not been able to play in IPL 2026 yet due to calf injury.
- CSK official says decision to return is Dhoni’s decision
- Experienced players working on fitness in the nets
- There is no confirmed return date yet
“He is committed and extremely focused on training” – CSK management
In the 19 years of IPL, Dhoni has managed to become synonymous with CSK due to his performances both with the bat and as captain. Many fans are sitting in the hope that they might get to see the last glimpse of Dhoni. Now, a senior member of the CSK management has spoken to RevSportz about Dhoni’s return.
“I can definitely tell you that Dhoni is working hard for it. He is committed and extremely focused on training. But none of us know when he will decide to make a comeback. It is his decision.”
Reports in the last few weeks have revealed that the CSK management has left the decision of MS Dhoni’s comeback up to him. There was speculation for at least the last three games whether he would return or not, but ultimately, the spectacular comeback did not happen.
Dhoni’s IPL career with CSK
Dhoni has been no less than a talisman as the captain of CSK in the last few years. He has made it to the IPL finals 10 times with this team and won 5 of them.
Although he was restricted to only cameos in the latter stages of his career, he was one of the best finishers in his heyday. MS Dhoni is CSK’s most capped player in IPL history and the highest run scorer of all time. He also holds the record for hitting the most number of sixes for the team in IPL history.
CSK in IPL 2026
Without MS Dhoni, CSK have found their middle order unstable, and this has led to a poor form for CSK in IPL 2026.
CSK is currently placed sixth in the points table with just 4 wins from 9 matches. CSK’s playoff hopes hang in the balance due to poor results. Even if they win all their matches from here, they may need the help of other results to advance.
Injuries have not made time easy for CSK in the tournament. Apart from MS Dhoni, Ayush Mhatre, Khaleel Ahmed and Nathan Ellis are out due to injury. Now Ramakrishna Ghosh has also joined this growing list.
Also read: CSK’s injury list increases! MI vs Ramakrishna Ghosh ruled out of IPL 2026 after foot fracture
CSK’s next match in IPL 2026
CSK will next face seventh-placed Delhi Capitals. This match will be played on 5th May at Arun Jaitley Stadium in Delhi.
Till the match day, there will be no real confirmation as to whether MS Dhoni will finally suit up for the Yellow Army or not.
FAQ
- Why is MS Dhoni not playing in IPL 2026?
He is recovering from a calf injury suffered at the start of the season. - Will MS Dhoni make a comeback this season?
There is no specific time limit, and the decision is his decision. - What did CSK say on Dhoni’s return?
A senior official said that Dhoni is training hard but has not yet decided on his comeback.
