MS Dhoni could be set for a much-awaited return for Chennai Super Kings, with the wicketkeeper-batter reportedly scheduled to undergo a fitness test in the next couple of days. Dhoni has not featured in IPL 2026 so far after suffering a calf strain ahead of the season, and CSK have struggled badly in his absence, losing all three of their opening matches.
According to reports, Dhoni’s fitness assessment will determine whether he is available for Chennai Super Kings’ next game against Delhi Capitals at Chepauk on Saturday. The veteran has already resumed batting in the nets and is said to be moving without discomfort.
Even so, the CSK management is taking a cautious approach and does not want to rush the 44-year-old back before he is fully ready. MS Dhoni has also not been travelling with the squad, underlining how carefully the franchise is managing his recovery.
ALSO READ: Wasim Jaffer Calls For Clear Communication In Team India Amid Yuvraj Singh Remarks
His absence has been felt strongly on the field as CSK have fallen to defeats against Rajasthan Royals, Punjab Kings, and Royal Challengers Bengaluru, leaving them rooted to the bottom of the points table. They are among the few teams yet to register a win this season.
🚨 BIG UPDATE ON MS DHONI 🚨
– Dhoni is likely to have a fitness Test in next couple of days, if he passes it, he will play against Delhi at Chepauk. [Express Sports] pic.twitter.com/9q5q9yqK3u
— Johns. (@CricCrazyJohns) April 6, 2026
As MS Dhoni nears the twilight of his IPL career, there is growing belief that this could be his final season in the tournament. For CSK, though, the immediate focus will be on getting their former captain fit and back in action as soon as possible.
ALSO READ: Aaron Finch Slams CSK Approach As RCB Dominate In IPL 2026 Clash
In another setback, Dewald Brevis has also missed CSK’s first three matches after picking up a side strain in training. Head coach Stephen Fleming, however, sounded hopeful about the South African batter’s return.
“We hope he is going to be right for the next game. We have five days between the next game. We have been conservative and hopefully, these next five days go as well as we have planned, and he is ready to go,” Stephen Fleming said.
