Fresh blow for Chennai super kings
MS Dhoni’s much-awaited return in the Indian Premier League 2026 season has been delayed further after a fresh injury setback, dealing a blow to Chennai Super Kings.
Head coach Stephen Fleming confirmed that Dhoni aggravated his calf problem during a pre-season practice game, pushing back his recovery timeline.
What caused the delay
Dhoni, who was initially expected to miss only the first couple of weeks due to a calf strain, suffered another tweak while trying to push himself in a warm-up match.
Fleming revealed that the veteran wicketkeeper-batter had “pushed it early” and ended up worsening the injury, forcing the team management to adopt a more cautious approach.
Recovery under careful monitoring
Since the setback, Dhoni has been undergoing rehabilitation and working closely with the team’s physios. While he has been seen training in the nets, his match return remains uncertain.
Fleming stressed that calf injuries can be tricky and rushing Dhoni back could risk a more serious tear, which has made the franchise extra careful about his comeback.
CSK feeling the impact
The absence of Dhoni has coincided with a difficult run for Chennai Super Kings, who have struggled for consistency in the ongoing season. The team has already played multiple matches without their experienced leader, highlighting the impact of his absence on both leadership and finishing ability.
No clear return date yet
Despite steady progress in training, there is still no confirmed timeline for Dhoni’s return. Fleming indicated that the final decision will depend on Dhoni’s own assessment of his fitness, as the franchise prioritizes long-term recovery over a rushed comeback.
The wait for fans continues, with one of the game’s biggest icons still on the sidelines as IPL 2026 unfolds.
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