The highly anticipated “El Clásico” of the IPL took place at the Wankhede Stadium on Thursday, April 23, 2026, but for the seventh consecutive match, the Chennai Super Kings were without their legendary former captain, MS Dhoni. While the veteran wicketkeeper-batter remained sidelined due to a persistent calf strain, his team delivered a clinical performance to crush the Mumbai Indians by 103 runs.
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The “Thala” Return: Latest Updates
Despite intensive training sessions leading up to the game—including wicketkeeping drills and facing rapid bowlers in the nets—Dhoni was not included in the lineup or the dugout for the clash against MI.
- Management’s Stance: CSK batting coach Mike Hussey confirmed to commentators Ravi Shastri and Sunil Gavaskar that while Dhoni is batting and running well, he is still not 100% match-fit.
- The Comeback Role: Hussey shut down rumors of Dhoni returning as an Impact Substitute, stating, “When MS Dhoni comes, he will be behind the stumps.”
- The Next Target: While some reports from RevSportz previously suggested a late May return, the latest target for his 2026 debut is now set for Sunday, April 26, when CSK returns to Chepauk to face the Gujarat Titans.
Match Highlights: MI vs CSK (April 23, 2026)
The contest itself was dominated by a masterclass from Sanju Samson, whose spectacular form effectively filled the leadership void on the field.
- Samson’s Century: In a career-defining knock, Sanju Samson hammered an unbeaten 101 off 54 balls (including 10 fours and 6 sixes), powering CSK to a massive 207/6.
- Spin Strangle: MI’s chase never gained momentum. Akeal Hosein dismantled the middle order with a stellar 4/17, well-supported by Noor Ahmad (2/24).
- The Result: Mumbai Indians were bundled out for just 104 in 19 overs, marking one of their heaviest defeats in the rivalry’s history.
Injury Ledger & Team News
- The Injury Crisis: CSK’s win is even more impressive given their depleted squad. Along with Dhoni, the franchise is missing Ayush Mhatre (hamstring) and Khaleel Ahmed (quadriceps), both ruled out for the season.
- Emotional Return: Pacer Mukesh Choudhary provided the emotional high point of the night, dismissing Quinton de Kock early and celebrating with a tribute to his recently deceased mother.
- MI’s Status: The Mumbai Indians remain at the bottom of the table, still awaiting the full-fitness return of Rohit Sharma, who missed this marquee clash with a hamstring strain.
