MI vs CSK, IPL 2026: Chennai Super Kings (CSK) bowling coach Eric Simons has issued a huge update on MS Dhoni’s availability for IPL 2026 clash against the Mumbai Indians on April 23, Thursday at the Wankhede Stadium. Simons remained coy on Dhoni’s chances of featuring in the crucial match, stating that a final call on the legendary keeper-batter’s participation will be taken on Thursday before the fixture.
MI vs CSK, IPL 2026: How many matches has MS Dhoni played in IPL 2026?
The former Super Kings captain has been nursing a calf injury that has forced him to miss the start of IPL 2026. Although the 44-year-old had recently resumed batting in the nets earlier, he still needed time to come to match fitness. According to reports, Dhoni batted in the nets for a fairly long period of time as the Super Kings prepare for the El Classico. The veteran also practised keeping in the nets, meaning he will station himself behind the stumps should he feature in the clash against the Mumbai Indians.
MS (Dhoni) – a decision on him will be taken tomorrow by him and the medical staff, if he is absolutely ready to go: Eric Simons, CSK’s bowling coach pic.twitter.com/jyPbhHrdK7
— RevSportz Global (@RevSportzGlobal) April 22, 2026
Having already lost Ayush Mhatre due to a hamstring injury, the Super Kings will welcome Dhoni with open arms.
MS Dhoni interacts with cameraman after net session
Meanwhile, the Ranchi-born keeper-batter was seen having a playful interaction with an official IPL cameraman after his net session at the Wankhede Stadium on Wednesday. Below is the video of the same:
MS Dhoni to IPL cameraman:
“Bhai reel bhar gaya, pura bhar gya ab, ab meri battery bhi 1% pe hai, Ghar jaane de chhod de ab” 😭🔋
Nation wants content.
Thala wants home.Guess who’s winning? 😂💛 pic.twitter.com/75QLCqbmcu
— Abhinav MSDian™ (@Abhinav_hariom) April 22, 2026
The 44-year-old is the custodian of several records in IPL history, being the most-capped captain, most-capped player and the keeper with most dismissals. Dhoni also has a rich captaincy resume, winning five titles with the Super Kings. Nevertheless, the Yellow Army’s recent form will not inspire confidence as they are eighth in the standings with four losses in six games. Meanwhile, the Mumbai Indians have shown signs of revival after four successive losses as they registered a 99-run victory over the Gujarat Titans in Ahmedabad.
