MS Dhoni Returns to Nets, But Match Fitness Still a Question
The anticipation surrounding MS Dhoni’s return to the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) playing XI is palpable. After being forced out of the opening weeks of IPL 2026, the legendary wicketkeeper-batter has been working his way back from a calf injury. However, latest reports indicate that his return to match fitness is taking longer than initially expected.
On the opening day of the season, CSK released a statement saying Dhoni was likely to miss the first two weeks of the tournament. While he has been training with his teammates, his activity has been limited. He has primarily been facing throwdowns rather than facing full-tilt bowling from the bowlers.
The Latest from Chepauk
On the Monday eve of CSK’s home match against Kolkata Knight Riders, Dhoni had a short hit in the nets under the lights at Chepauk. Even in this場面, he limited himself to himself to facing throwdowns from the support staff, including batting coach Mike Hussey.
During the session, Dhoni showed flashes of his signature power. When a ball landed in his slot, he whipped it away to the midwicket boundary with his bottom hand. He also launched another slot ball over the leg side into the ‘J’ stand, demonstrating that his timing and power are unchanged. However, it is notable that he did not keep wicket during the session, suggesting a caution approach to his recovery.
Absence and Team Impact
Dhoni, now 44, has missed the first four games of the season, and it is likely he will miss the fifth match on Tuesday. He has not traveled with the squad for away games in Guwahati and Bengaluru, nor has he been traveling with the team to Chepauk on match days for home games.
Despite his physical absence from the playing XI, head coach Stephen Fleming says Dhoni’s influence remains strong. During a press conference in Guwahati, Fleming highlighted that Dhoni’s involvement in the side remains heavy, providing invaluable guidance to the rest of the squad.
The Transition and Substitutes
In Dhoni’s absence, the team has seen a shift in roles. Sanju Samson, who was traded from Rajasthan Royals, has taken over the wicketkeeping duties. Meanwhile, Jamie Overton, the England allrounder, has provided glimpses of his big-hitting capabilities as a finisher.
CSK also have other options in the reserves, including Rajasthan wicketkeeper Kartik Sharma, acquired for INR 14.2 crore at the mini-auction, and Gujarat’s Urvil Patel.
Analyzing the Power-Hitting Role
In recent seasons, Dhoni’s role has been highly specialized. In 2023, he batted only 10-12 balls per innings and focused on high-impact hitting. His strike rate in 2023 was 182, and in 2024, it was 221. However, last year, he had to play more balls—145 in total—which was more than 2023 and 2024 combined. This increased load led to a struggle, with his strike rate dropping to 135.
Additional Squad Updates: Spencer Johnson
CSK is also awaiting the arrival of Spencer Johnson, the replacement for the injured Nathan Ellis. Johnson is currently recovering from his own injury and is expected to join the side around April 21-23. His domestic coach at South Australia, Ryan Harris, has confirmed that the left-arm quick has resumed bowling and is building up his loads.
Bowling coach Eric Simons expressed excitement about Johnson’s arrival, citing his tremendous attributes and pace. While the team is not yet sure of how much of a role he will play, he is viewed as a fantastic acquisition.
CSK’s Current Standing
With only one win from their first four matches, Chennai Super Kings are currently second from bottom on the points table. The return of MS Dhoni’s leadership and finishing power will be undoubtedly a crucial factor in their campaign for the playoffs.
