MS Dhoni Goes Against CSK's Interest, Helps Hardik Pandya Regain Lost Form

MS Dhoni and Hardik Pandya [Source: screengrab]MS Dhoni might well be gearing up for his big comeback this IPL 2026 season, contrary to the earlier reports. Yet to play a single game this tournament, the legendary wicketkeeper-batter was recently spotted being padded-up as per a social media feed of the CSK franchise. On Friday, May 1, i.e., a day prior to CSK’s home game against the Mumbai Indians, Dhoni got reunited with some of his ex-India colleagues. Attending the Chepauk Stadium in Chennai in CSK’s training kit, the cricketer even hugged Mumbai Indians skipper and seasoned all-rounder Hardik Pandya. MS Dhoni hugs CSK rival Hardik Pandya before big day MS Dhoni got reunited with his ex-India teammate and current IPL rival Hardik Pandya. The two cricketers met each other at the Chepauk Stadium in Chennai on May 1 during a Mumbai Indians training session. Also Read- Watch- Vaibhav Sooryavanshi Goes The MS Dhoni Way; Lands A Helicopter Vs ArshdeepDhoni and Pandya even hugged each other, before the Mumbai Indians skipper casually offered his bat to his ex-national teammate. Seemingly seeking assistance from the legendary wicketkeeper-batter, the CSK stumper indulged in Pandya’s request as the two cricketers were seen interacting with each other for a while, before the all-rounder made his way back to join his Mumbai Indians colleagues in the training session.Chennai Super Kings @ChennaiIPL But first HUG🫂💛 #WhistlePodu #CSKvMI May 1, 2026, 7:16 PM MS Dhoni return a strong possibility Yet to play a single game this IPL 2026 season so far, MS Dhoni might make his return to the CSK playing XI in their upcoming match against the Mumbai Indians. Prior to the tournament, the 44-year-old was ruled out of the first two weeks owing to a calf strain. However, Dhoni has been spotted making multiple appearances alongside his CSK colleagues in training sessions, as per as the social media feed of the franchise. Before the Mumbai Indians clash, CSK batting coach Mike Hussey said that the cricketer is already making good progress in his recovery, thus hinting that he might make his return to the team for the high-profile game. Releasing an official update, Hussey said “Hopefully he'll be back as soon as possible. I don't know if it's tomorrow or maybe the next match after that but he's progressing really well. I know he's been upping his running speeds and that was probably the sticking point.” CSK and Mumbai Indians to collide in must-win game The upcoming match between CSK and Mumbai Indians mark a must-win one for both sides in a bid to stay in contention for the IPL 2026 playoffs race. The match will be hosted by the Chepauk Stadium in Chennai on Saturday, May 2 and the action will commence from 7:30 PM IST onwards. The CSK franchise, under the leadership of Ruturaj Gaikwad, is currently placed sixth on the IPL 2026 points table with mere three wins from eight matches. Current scenario requires CSK to win at least five of its remaining six games. For the Mumbai Indians, Hardik Pandya’s troops need to win each of their remaining six fixtures to stay alive in the competition. Also Read- Kyle Jamieson Shouts At Vaibhav Sooryavanshi On His Face; Fears BCCI Action