Will MS Dhoni play tonight in MI vs CSK clash of IPL 2026?
(Courtesy : Getty Images)
MS Dhoni is yet to play a match so far in IPL 2026.
Chennai Super Kings (CSK), the five-time champions, will be desperate for a win in Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026, having won only two out of their first six matches, as they take on Mumbai Indians (MI) at Wankhede Stadium on April 23.
After losing their first three matches, they finally found winning momentum against Delhi Capitals (DC) and Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), but their latest loss to Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) has once again derailed them.
The form of CSK‘s captain Ruturaj Gaikwad and middle-order star Shivam Dube continue to be a cause of major concern. While their bowling has exceeded expectations so far, the recent injuries to Ayush Mhatre and Khaleel Ahmed will force the management to make a few changes.
The introduction of Spencer Johnson could help CSK pick wickets in the powerplay, while Noor Ahmed’s return to form will encourage them. As they head to the half-way mark in this edition of the IPL, CSK would hope their big names can find their form ahead of the highly anticipated El Clasico.
Will MS Dhoni play in MI vs CSK match of IPL 2026?
CSK’s former captain and IPL legend MS Dhoni missed the first six matches and is yet to play a match this season. The reason for his absence stems from the calf strain injury he suffered during a pre-season practice session at the M.A. Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai.
Reports earlier suggested that he will miss at least the first six matches of the competition, which have now come true. So far, multiple players have been given opportunities in the middle-order, including Sarfraz Khan, Prashant Veer, Kartik Sharma and Matt Short.
Dhoni, now 44 years old, plays just two months of professional cricket every year. However, leading up to the MI clash, the veteran has been spotted in the nets constantly. He has been striking the ball well in the nets, and has also been seen practicing wicket-keeping.
When asked about his availability for this MI vs CSK contest, CSK bowling coach Eric Simmons gave a clear statement:
“A decision on him (Dhoni) will be taken tomorrow by him and the medical staff, if he is absolutely ready to go,” he said.
Should Dhoni return to the team, it is expected that he might replace Mhatre, with Brevis and Sarfraz playing at No. 3 and 4. It also remains to be seen if Dhoni plays as an impact player, or if he will reclaim the wicket-keeping duties, which have been performed by Sanju Samson so far this season.
Will MS Dhoni play in CSK vs MI IPL 2026 match?
A decision will be taken by Dhoni and the medical staff before the match, depending on his recovery.
Why has MS Dhoni missed matches in IPL 2026?
Dhoni has been sidelined due to a calf strain suffered during a pre-season practice session in Chennai.
For more updates, follow Khel Now Cricket on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Youtube; download the Khel Now Android App or IOS App and join our community on Whatsapp & Telegram.
Aniruddh Seshadri Iyer is a passionate sports journalist at Khel Now, specializing in tennis and Olympic sports. An engineer by training, he found his storytelling passion through iconic Grand Slam and Olympic moments. Known for sharp analysis and insightful coverage, he draws inspiration from Novak Djokovic’s resilience. Outside journalism, he enjoys reading, traveling, and playing the guitar.