Kamal Ghorui
As Chennai Super Kings prepare to face Mumbai Indians at the iconic Wankhede Stadium on April 23, 2026, the biggest question surrounding the clash is simple: Will MS Dhoni return to action?A definitive decision on Dhoni’s participation will only be made just before the toss on matchday. While he has not yet been officially confirmed in the playing XI, there are encouraging signs that suggest his return could be imminent. Dhoni has been actively training at the Wankhede, spending nearly 40 minutes in intense batting and wicketkeeping drills. His presence in full-fledged practice sessions indicates steady progress and has boosted hopes within the CSK camp.Fitness Update and Medical ClearanceCSK bowling consultant Eric Simons made it clear that Dhoni will only play if both he and the medical staff are fully satisfied with his fitness. The veteran has been recovering from a calf strain, which ruled him out of the first six matches of the season.
“A decision on him (Dhoni) will be taken tomorrow by him and the medical staff, if he is absolutely ready to go,” Simmons said on the eve of the match.Captain Ruturaj Gaikwad also confirmed that Dhoni is “slowly and steadily” regaining full fitness, adding that the injury occurred during an intra-squad practice game when Dhoni felt discomfort while running.“We were playing a practice match; that’s when he [MS Dhoni] snapped his calf, and then he wasn’t able to run as comfortably as he wanted to and I think after that it was just about him seeing some of the youngsters playing in practice games or in match simulations where he felt confident enough about them, who are ready and who have that ability to play in the IPL. And, after that, it was just about taking time on his recovery, and slowly, slowly he’s getting there. Never know, maybe next game, maybe after that, but definitely one day for sure,” Gaikwad said.
Likely Role if He Plays
Even if declared fit, Dhoni may not take on a full workload immediately. He is expected to feature as an Impact Player, allowing the team to manage his fitness carefully while still benefiting from his experience and finishing ability. Sanju Samson has been handling the keeping duties in his absence, but the team is eager for Dhoni’s return to provide experience to a squad currently sitting 8th on the points table
