New Delhi: MS Dhoni has been sidelined since the beginning of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 season. The Chennai Super Kings (CSK) captain has missed his team’s first three matches due to a calf injury.
At the start of the IPL season, CSK indicated that Dhoni would likely be out for at least the first two weeks due to his condition. He has remained in Chennai instead of traveling with the team for their away games, reportedly focusing on rehabilitation at home under the guidance of the CSK support staff. Recently, however, he participated in a batting session at the CSK practice nets.
According to a report from Cricbuzz, his participation in the upcoming home game against the Delhi Capitals on April 11 is in serious doubt. CSK officials have stated that it could take another week for Dhoni to regain match fitness. Currently, he is far from ready to compete.
The franchise is also concerned about the fitness of Dewald Brevis, who has been absent due to a side strain. CSK CEO Kasi Viswanathan mentioned that Brevis is showing signs of improvement but could only return depending on his recovery progress.
CSK captain Ruturaj Gaikwad noted that Dhoni is “getting back slowly” and expressed hope for his prompt return. Gaikwad commented on team strategy and confidence, emphasizing their intent to restrict opposition runs while also reflecting on Dhoni’s recovery timeframe. “If he’s ready to play, it’ll be soon,” Gaikwad remarked during the toss before their match against Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) on April 5.
