It's CSK vs MI again, but both teams have been far from their best in recent years and find themselves at a crossroads

MS Dhoni's return for Chennai Super Kings against Mumbai Indians on April 23, 2026, hinges on his fitness after a calf strain. He has been training intensely, showing progress, with a final decision to be made before the toss.

Down with a calf strain injury, MS Dhoni has now missed his seventh game in IPL 2026. Initially on March 28, CSK informed that Dhoni will be out of action for two weeks.

MS Dhoni will miss the blockbuster IPL 2026 clash between CSK and Mumbai Indians as he is not fully fit from a hamstring injury. Although he has resumed training and wicketkeeping practice, he opted out and could return against Gujarat Titans on April 26.

Hussey emphasised that the primary concern remains Dhoni’s recovery, particularly his ability to run between the wickets without discomfort.

Chennai Super Kings mainstay MS Dhoni had batted and kept wickets in the nets ahead of the Indian Premier League 'Clasico' face-off with Mumbai Indians, but did not play the match eventually

Ahead of CSK vs MI at Wankhede, Dhoni’s witty remark to Deepak Chahar about cameras drew laughs, spotlighting their bond. With both sides struggling early, the “El Clasico of IPL” gains added intensity.

The season is going from bad to worse for Chennai with no hope of an MS Dhoni comeback in sight. When the season started, it was informed that Dhoni would be out for a fortnight, now it is way beyond that and there is no confirmation or statement of any kind from the CSK camp.