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Former Chennai Super Kings (CSK) captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni could make his first appearance in the IPL 2026 season against Mumbai Indians (MI) at the Wankhede Stadium on April 23. The 44-year-old has been out of action due to a calf strain he picked up during the pre-season camp, but team sources say he is now close to full fitness.
Will MS Dhoni feature in SRH clash?
CSK’s next game is an away match against Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH), though it is still unclear whether Dhoni will travel with the squad for that fixture.
Right now, CSK are placed eighth on the points table with two wins from five matches. The team, led by Ruturaj Gaikwad, had a rough start with three straight losses but bounced back by winning their last two home games against Delhi Capitals (DC) and Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR).
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Even though he hasn’t played yet, Dhoni has been around the team. He has been watching home matches from the team hotel and regularly attending practice sessions. While facing throwdowns in training, he has not shown any signs of discomfort.
CSK bowling coach on MS Dhoni's comeback
Before the match against Kolkata Knight Riders, Dhoni spent time batting with coach Mike Hussey, although he didn’t face the main bowlers. He also worked closely with left-arm wrist spinner Noor Ahmad during practice.
“MS (Dhoni) had a long chat with him in one of the practise sessions, getting his leg break to go. So I think it was very helpful for him and the results were there to show,” CSK’s bowling coach Sridharan Sriram said.
How Dhoni will be included in CSK's playing XI
With CSK now back to winning ways, the team management will need to figure out where Dhoni fits into the playing XI. The side lacks depth in batting towards the lower order, as their main bowlers start coming in from No. 8. However, the top and middle order are already quite settled.
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One possible option is to replace Sarfaraz Khan, although he has been one of the team’s better performers this season. In the last match against Kolkata Knight Riders, though, he struggled to accelerate and scored 23 runs off 18 balls.
Another option could be to use Dhoni as an Impact Player, which might be a safer choice. This way, he can contribute with the bat and later be substituted with a bowler if needed.
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