MS Dhoni’s fitness is still a big concern for Chennai Super Kings at the moment. As of April 7, he is not close to full match fitness, and there is no clear timeline yet on when he will return to action. CSK are set to face Delhi Capitals on April 11, but it looks very unlikely that Dhoni will be available for that game.
When will MS Dhoni feature in IPL 2026?
Team officials have confirmed that Dhoni is currently recovering from a calf muscle strain and is undergoing rehab. At this stage, he may need at least another week before he is ready to play.
ALSO READ: Kolkata Knight Riders advised to bench 25.20 crore pick ahead of IPL 2026 clash
Over the next few days, CSK will play two matches at home in Chepauk, against Delhi Capitals on April 11 and Kolkata Knight Riders on April 14. While he is almost certain to miss the first game, even his chances of playing against KKR remain uncertain. The team will be hoping to have him back soon, especially after a poor start to the season, with no wins in their first three matches.
ALSO READ: RR vs MI Cleared to Start After Rain, Match Reduced With New Timing
Dhoni, who is now 44, has also not been travelling with the squad for away matches. He missed trips to Guwahati and Bengaluru and was also not seen during the home game against the Punjab Kings, which led to a lot of speculation about his absence.
Where is MS Dhoni now?
At present, Dhoni is in Chennai with his family and is continuing his recovery under the supervision of the CSK support staff, including the physio and masseur. He has also had a batting session at the team’s practice nets recently.
"MS is undergoing rehab and it will take some time. We can't say how much time," said Kasi Viswanathan, the CEO, who has also revealed that Dewald Brevis, who too has missed the start of the season due to a side strain, is improving. "We are hoping he will be available for the next game, but that will depend on how he progresses. We have a few days before the next game."
CSK's campaign in IPL 2026
This has been one of the worst starts for Chennai Super Kings in an Indian Premier League season. It is their second-longest losing streak at the beginning of a campaign. Their worst start came in 2022, when they lost their first four matches. Last season was also difficult, as they won their opening game but then lost the next five, finishing with just four wins in 14 matches.