Dhoni has already missed eight matches for CSK this season so far.
MS Dhoni’s return to the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) playing XII in IPL 2026 has been delayed after he re-tweaked his calf muscle during a warm-up session, head coach Stephen Fleming confirmed on Sunday (April 26).
Initially ruled out for two weeks, the 44-year-old’s recovery has hit an obstacle, forcing him to miss eight matches so far. While he is doing rehab and batting in the nets, the team is acting cautiously to prevent a worse injury.
"He's pretty keen," Fleming told the media about Dhoni's much-awaited return. "The calf is a tough one though, if he takes off and rips the calf again, then he will be gone. So we pushed it early, in the warm-up game he tweaked it again, it's my understanding, and since then he has been just working hard to get some movement into it, but there was a setback, so it has taken longer than we thought."
Despite the setback, Dhoni is active in the nets, often facing throwdowns, and was recently seen doing sprint work with the team physio. With five losses in eight games, CSK have certainly missed his presence on the field.
Fleming said while they are waiting for final clearance, Dhoni is working intensely with physios and performing rehab to be match-ready.
"He is the guide on this one, and he's working hard with the physio and doing all the rehab, and we're just waiting for the word really," the coach added. "But all I can keep saying is stop making light of it, as he is progressing and doing everything he can."
CSK are currently occupying sixth spot in the team standings. The Ruturaj Gaikwad-led side will next face Mumbai Indians at Chepauk on May 2.