Days after being declared unfit and unavailable for the opening two weeks of IPL 2026, a clip of MS Dhoni from what appears to be a training session has gone viral on social media, raising expectations
that the legendary wicketkeeper-batter could be back in action sooner than anticipated. CSK had earlier announced that Dhoni is undergoing rehabilitation for a calf strain, which means he will likely miss their opening four games.
Watch the video below:
Kodiyil Oruvan! 🦁💛#WhistlePodu #Yellove pic.twitter.com/SuztJYGNzr
— Chennai Super Kings (@ChennaiIPL) April 1, 2026
A Times Of India report, though, claims that the Dhoni may miss six matches, including the marquee clash with Mumbai Indians, too. However, there’s no official word on when the 44-year-old will be back in action.
Dhoni’s Struggles With Fitness
After a memorable title triumph in 2023, when CSK defeated Gujarat Titans in a pulsating title clash in Ahmedabad, the then captain Dhoni underwent a knee surgery. He had played the entire IPL season back then with a heavily strapped right knee. With limited mobility, he batted in the lower order and was far from his fluent best when running between the wickets.
IPL 2026: Orange Cap | Purple Cap | Points Table
Despite the successful surgery, Dhoni has continued to bat in the lower order and produced a series of dazzling cameos, leading to suggestions that he needs to bat higher. He played in all 14 matches last IPL and scored 196 runs at a strike-rate of 135.17, including a best of unbeaten 30.
CSK’s Disappointing Start
Opening their IPL 2026 campaign against Rajasthan Royals in Guwahati, CSK produced a listless show with the bat as the five-time champions were bundled out for 127 in 19.4 overs. Sanu Samson, who made his CSK debut, was out after managing six. It was Jamie Overton, whose 43 off 36 from no. 8, provided some semblance of respectability to their total after the visitors were reduced to 94/9. RR chased down the small target in just 12.1 overs for an eight-wicket win with 15-year-old Vaibhav Sooryavanshi belting 17-ball 52.
CSK are currently placed at the bottom of the pile in the IPL points table.
