MS Dhoni is getting closer to full fitness after missing the early matches of IPL 2026 due to a calf injury. He has travelled with the Chennai Super Kings squad to Hyderabad, which is a positive sign for his comeback.
However, he is still unlikely to play the upcoming match against Sunrisers Hyderabad.
CSK vs SRH Match Update
Chennai Super Kings will face Sunrisers Hyderabad on April 18 at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium in Hyderabad.
CSK are in good form and are aiming for their third straight win after recent victories against Kolkata and Delhi.
Is Dhoni Playing vs SRH?
Even though Dhoni has joined the squad after a gap of three weeks, the team management does not want to take any risk.
He is expected to miss the SRH match and may return in the next home game against Gujarat Titans on April 26.
The focus is on giving him enough time to fully recover and avoid any further injury.
Dhoni’s Recovery Progress
Dhoni has started light training sessions. He is practicing batting in the nets and facing throwdowns from the coaching staff.
He has not yet started wicketkeeping practice, which suggests he may first return as an impact substitute before taking on a full role in the field.
| Activity | Status |
|---|---|
| Batting practice | Started |
| Wicketkeeping drills | Not started |
| Match fitness | Improving |
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Importance of Dhoni in the Team
Head coach Stephen Fleming has said that Dhoni’s presence is very important for the team, even when he is not playing.
His experience and leadership help the team in decision-making and match situations.
Dhoni’s IPL Record
| Matches | Runs | Average |
|---|---|---|
| 278 | 5439 | 38.30 |
Dhoni remains one of the most experienced players in IPL history and continues to be a key figure for CSK.
Selection Challenge for CSK
CSK have recently found a good team balance. New players have performed well, and the team is winning matches.
Bringing Dhoni back into the playing XI could create a tough decision for the management.
They will need to decide whether to change the current winning combination or wait until Dhoni is fully ready.
CSK will continue to monitor Dhoni’s fitness over the next few days.
Fans can expect his return soon, but the team is likely to take a careful approach. His comeback will depend on how quickly he regains full match fitness.
For now, CSK will focus on maintaining their winning form while preparing for Dhoni’s return in the upcoming matches.
