Ashwin Drops Massive Hint On MS Dhoni’s IPL Return In MI vs CSK

MS Dhoni’s return for CSK in IPL 2026 looks imminent as Ravichandran Ashwin claims the veteran is “fit and good to go” ahead of the MI clash.

The suspense surrounding MS Dhoni’s return in IPL 2026 continues to keep fans on edge, with the Chennai Super Kings icon yet to feature this season due to a calf strain. Questions remain over whether the legendary wicketkeeper-batter is fully fit, when he will return, and if this could quietly be his final IPL season.

While Chennai Super Kings have struggled with inconsistency and injuries, Dhoni’s absence has only amplified concerns. The five-time IPL-winning captain’s availability has become crucial, especially as CSK look to revive their campaign after managing just two wins in six matches so far.

Training Clips Spark Comeback Speculation

Recent developments, however, suggest that Dhoni’s return might be imminent. CSK have been sharing training visuals where the veteran cricketer is seen actively participating, including donning wicketkeeping gloves behind the stumps.

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This particular detail caught the attention of India spinner Ravichandran Ashwin, who believes it strongly that Dhoni could feature in the upcoming clash against Mumbai Indians.

“I’ve never seen MS Dhoni keeping the wickets in the nets,” Ashwin said on his YouTube channel Ash Ki Baat. “This means he will be keeping in place of (Sanju) Samson. Or he might be used as an Impact player. I am 100 per cent sure, he will play (against Mumbai Indians). I’ve heard he’s fit and good to go.”

Ashwin Confident Dhoni Is Match-Ready

Ashwin further emphasized that Dhoni’s involvement in wicketkeeping drills and match simulations indicates full recovery from his calf injury.

“See against SRH, CSK were found lacking in finishing the game. So if you need 15 off 5 deliveries, Dhoni can do the job. He can hit the sixes towards the end,” Ashwin said.

“I think, if Dhoni wants to play, how will you keep him out? He’s batting in the nets, keeping the wickets and also running. If he had not recovered from the calf strain, he wouldn’t have been able to do wicketkeeping. He’s ready to play,” he added.

He also reiterated his stance by saying, “I have never seen him (Dhoni) wearing wicketkeeping gloves in the nets. He’s batting, running during the warmups which means he’s recovered from the calf strain. All signs indicate he wants to play and he’s ready.”

With CSK currently placed eighth on the table and set to face Mumbai Indians next, Dhoni’s return could provide the much-needed finishing boost the team has been lacking.