![MS Dhoni fitness update ahead of CSK vs KKR [Source: AFP]](https://onecricketnews.akamaized.net/parth-editor/oc-dashboard/news-images-prod/1776101598081_MSDhoniCSK.jpg?type=hq)
MS Dhoni fitness update ahead of CSK vs KKR [Source: AFP]
Hours ahead of the Chennai Super Kings’ IPL 2026 opening fixture against the Rajasthan Royals, the CSK fans received a significant update about MS Dhoni’s injury, ruling him out of the initial matches of the season.
It was conveyed by the franchise that the former skipper will remain unavailable for an expected period of the first two weeks, from Match 30. As per the time frame mentioned via official statement, MS Dhoni’s availability was supposed to be touch-and-go for the clash against the Kolkata Knight Riders at the Chepauk on April 14.
On the eve of the match day, there is still no official word from the franchise over his participation in the KKR game. However, as the teams took to the field to train for the fixture, there were signs from the CSK nets, providing the latest on the former skipper.
Will MS Dhoni play vs KKR?
Right after the defeat against RR in Guwahati, where MS Dhoni did not travel with the team, he was seen training in the nets with Dewald Brevis, who was also recovering from an injury. The early signs instilled optimism in fans, who believed Dhoni could return to the playing XI ahead of the scheduled recovery period.
However, with 12 days gone after the official statement from the CSK, as per ESPNcricinfo, Dhoni is yet to do his wicketkeeping drills. On the eve of the KKR game, like the past few days, MS Dhoni took throwdowns from Michael Hussey and co. to stay in the groove.
While it is reported that Dhoni edged one delivery, the swashbuckling batter also sent a few slot balls into the stands, exhibiting his power game. As things stand, it looks highly unlikely that MS Dhoni will participate in Match 22 of IPL 2026 against the three-time IPL winner, KKR.
Also Read: BCCI Releases Fresh IPL 2026 Schedule; CSK, GT Impacted
Brevis’ return lifts spirits; Dhoni remains doubtful
Having missed the first three matches of CSK’s IPL 2026 campaign against RR, PBKS and RCB, the linchpin of the CSK middle-order, Dewald Brevis, returned to the mix against the Delhi Capitals. After joining the CSK camp in the middle of IPL 2025, Brevis had piled up 225 runs in 6 innings at 180, and his return was a significant boost to their torrid IPL 2026.
While Brevis did not get to bat on the day, he grabbed three catches to help CSK defend the 213-run target, and DC were restricted to 189.
Currently, it looks like the fans will need to wait for MS Dhoni’s return for at least one more match. Considering the scheduled 2-week out period, MS Dhoni could potentially return for the big match against the southern rivals, SRH, on April 18, just in time for the upcoming MI clash.
CSK looks to build on first win in IPL 2026
Just days ahead of the match at home against KKR, CSK’s win against DC at home was their first since March 2025, breaking a 6-game losing streak at what is known to be their fortress in Chennai.
With the next match against a struggling KKR, who have only one point in four matches, it is a massive opportunity for CSK to pick two more points and leave the bottom part of the points table. With Sanju Samson’s century and Dewald Brevis’ return, they look like a much settled side, and by the time MS Dhoni returns, CSK could potentially be back on a winning run.
Also Read: Stuck In 2020: The Brutal Truth Behind Mumbai Indians’ IPL 2026 Struggles
