WATCH: MS Dhoni sends CSK fans into frenzy with IPL 2026 comeback hint ahead of SRH clash

After a season defined by his absence, Chennai Super Kings' stalwart MS Dhoni has provided the strongest indication of his return to IPL 2026. On April 16, the legendary wicketkeeper-batter was spotted boarding the CSK team bus as the squad departed for the airport, heading to Hyderabad for their high-stakes encounter against Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH).

MS Dhoni off to Hyderabad ahead of SRH vs CSK clash

Dhoni had been sidelined for the first two weeks of the IPL 2026 season due to a groin injury, a recovery period that saw him skip the team's previous away fixtures in Guwahati and Bengaluru. His inclusion in the traveling party for this trip has ignited a social media frenzy, with fans speculating that he may finally feature in the starting XI at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium.

ALSO READ: 'I don't like seeing...': Virat Kohli not happy despite RCB's five-wicket win over LSG, Watch video

The franchise fueled the excitement by sharing a video of the team’s departure on their official social media channels. In the clip, a fit and ready Dhoni is seen boarding the bus in Chennai, taking a moment to acknowledge the passionate crowd. 

Accompanying the footage, the franchise posted a brief caption: "On Time, All set for Hyderabad." 

Watch the video here:

Dhoni's absence has naturally fueled discussions among fans and analysts regarding how the team would cope without his trademark leadership and finishing ability.

CSK return to winning ways

However, CSK head to Hyderabad in a position of strength rather than desperation. After a difficult start to the season where they lost three of their first four matches, Ruturaj Gaikwad’s squad has found its rhythm, securing two consecutive victories. This resurgence has moved CSK to eighth on the table with four points, backed by a much more settled and lethal team combination.

The team’s upward trajectory has been bolstered by key individual performances, notably from South African talent Dewald Brevis and spinner Noor Ahmad. Ahmad’s disciplined bowling earned him Player of the Match award in their recent win over the Kolkata Knight Riders. Furthermore, Sanju Samson has been clinical both behind the stumps and with the bat, while the bowling unit has successfully defended totals in back-to-back outings.

However, the suspense over Dhoni's return still persists as CSK management is yet to issue an official statement on his availability for the clash against SRH.