MS Dhoni’s Return in IPL 2026 Close? Ruturaj Gaikwad Drops Big Hint Ahead Of MI Match

Ruturaj Gaikwad provided an update on MS Dhoni’s calf injury and hinted at a possible return in IPL 2026 ahead of the MI vs CSK match.

Chennai Super Kings gear up to face Mumbai Indians on April 23 at Wankhede Stadium in IPL 2026. Captain Ruturaj Gaikwad provided an update on MS Dhoni’s fitness ahead of the match.

Dhoni has missed the season so far due to a calf injury. He suffered the injury during a practice game before IPL 2026. The injury kept him out for nearly a month. CSK tested several youngsters in his absence. The team managed only 2 wins in the early phase of the tournament.

Gaikwad indicated that Dhoni is progressing well in recovery. The veteran has gradually improved and returned to training routines. The management continues to monitor his condition closely. MS Dhoni’s return could happen soon, though no exact date is confirmed.

“We were playing a practice match; that’s when he [MS Dhoni] snapped his calf, and then he wasn’t able to run as comfortably as he wanted to. And I think after that it was just about him seeing some of the youngsters playing in practice games or in match simulations where he felt confident enough about them, who are ready and who have that ability to play in the IPL,” Gaikwad said at a CSK event.

“And, after that, it was just about taking time on his recovery, and slowly, slowly, he’s getting there. Never know, maybe next game, maybe after that, but definitely one day for sure,” he added.

When probed about Dhoni’s batting position, the skipper indicated the order will depend on match situations. Dhoni has followed a similar approach over the last 2-3 years.

Dhoni is expected to bat in the final 3-4 overs when required. He may move up the order if the situation demands urgency.

And about batting order, I think he has made it pretty clear for the last 2-3 years. I think it is just about giving an opportunity to youngsters or to other players to bat higher up the order and take the honors on him, whatever is possible, whatever he can do,” Gaikwad said.

“In the last overs, if required and obviously if the situation requires it, he will go up the order, but he likes to take everything on his chin and do the damage in the last three or four overs, whatever is possible,” the skipper concluded.

The upcoming match against the Mumbai Indians holds major importance for playoff hopes. The match will take place at Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai.