Will MS Dhoni play today in CSK vs LSG clash of IPL 2026?

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MS Dhoni sustained a calf injury during the pre-season training.
Chennai Super Kings (CSK) are set to face Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai on Sunday, May 10. The match is important for both teams as the race for the playoffs enters a crucial phase in the second half of the tournament.
CSK have shown improvement after a difficult start to the season, particularly with their bowling performances in recent matches. The side has managed to stay in contention for a top-four finish despite inconsistency in the early stages of the campaign.
LSG, meanwhile, are also fighting for points in a tightly contested table. With several teams still in playoff contention, the result of this fixture could have a direct impact on the standings.
One of the biggest talking points ahead of the game remains the availability of MS Dhoni. The former CSK captain is yet to feature in IPL 2026 due to fitness concerns, and his comeback continues to attract attention before every Chennai fixture.
Will MS Dhoni play in CSK vs LSG clash of IPL 2026?

As of now, there is no official confirmation that MS Dhoni will play against LSG. Reports suggest that he is still recovering from a calf injury that has kept him out since the start of the season. Dhoni has resumed training with the CSK squad and has been actively participating in practice sessions.
Despite those developments, CSK management has not confirmed his inclusion in the playing XI. The franchise is understood to be taking a cautious approach regarding his fitness and workload management.
Earlier, some reports also suggested that Dhoni had cleared fitness tests, but he himself team decided not to play to not disturb the winning combination.
CSK bowling coach Eric Simons also avoided giving a direct update regarding Dhoni’s return. Speaking ahead of previous matches, Simons said decisions regarding Dhoni’s comeback were “above my pay grade,” underlining the uncertainty around the situation.
In Dhoni’s absence, CSK have continued with Sanju Samson as the wicketkeeper while adjusting their middle-order combinations. The team has managed to remain competitive, but Dhoni’s experience and leadership has left a significant void.
At present, Dhoni’s availability for the CSK vs LSG clash remains uncertain. While his return to training is a positive sign, a final decision is expected closer to match time after another assessment of his fitness condition.
Will MS Dhoni play in CSK vs LSG match?
As of now, there is no official confirmation regarding Dhoni’s participation against Lucknow Super Giants.
Who has been wicketkeeping for CSK in Dhoni’s absence?
Sanju Samson is playing the role of Chennai Super Kings’ wicketkeeper in Dhoni’s absence.
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Anubha Anandita Pathak is a sports enthusiast with a strong passion for cricket and basketball, shaped by her experience as a district-level basketball and kabaddi player. A loyal Golden State Warriors supporter, she closely follows Stephen Curry’s style of play. With on-ground reporting experience covering the Indian Super League and Karnataka’s hockey circuit, Anubha brings both perspective and passion to her storytelling.