The biggest question surrounding Chennai Super Kings ahead of their crucial Indian Premier League clash against Lucknow Super Giants remains the same — will MS Dhoni finally return to action today?
As CSK prepare to host LSG at the MA Chidambaram Stadium, fans are eagerly waiting to see their beloved “Thala” back on the field for the first time this season.
Dhoni has been sidelined throughout IPL 2026 due to a calf injury, and uncertainty over his availability has become a major talking point before every CSK fixture. While the five-time champions have managed to stay competitive despite his absence, supporters continue to hope for a comeback during the second half of the campaign.
Will MS Dhoni Play Today?
At the moment, there is still no official confirmation regarding Dhoni’s participation against LSG.
The veteran wicketkeeper-batter has resumed training with the CSK squad and has reportedly increased the intensity of his rehabilitation sessions. Recent assessments suggest that Dhoni has successfully cleared multiple fitness tests and has returned to extended net sessions involving both batting and wicketkeeping drills.
However, CSK are believed to be taking a cautious approach with the 44-year-old star.
A minor setback during warm-up sessions earlier in his recovery reportedly delayed his return timeline. Initially, the franchise had hoped Dhoni would only miss a couple of weeks, but the recovery process has taken longer than expected.
While there is optimism surrounding his progress, sources indicate that CSK management do not want to rush his comeback until he is fully match-ready. Reports suggest Dhoni could potentially return during the latter stages of the league phase, possibly in one of CSK’s upcoming home fixtures at Chepauk.
LSG Injury Update
Lucknow Super Giants are also monitoring the fitness of a couple of key players ahead of the match.
Josh Inglis and Mohsin Khan both missed LSG’s previous fixture against Royal Challengers Bengaluru due to minor injuries.
After the victory over RCB, LSG captain Rishabh Pant confirmed that neither injury was considered serious. Both players are expected to be available for selection against CSK, although the team management now faces a tricky decision over whether to alter a winning combination.
Having finally ended their losing streak with a morale-boosting win, LSG may prefer continuity unless either player is deemed fully fit and ready to return immediately.
