MS Dhoni’s wait goes on in IPL 2026, and here’s what the latest update suggests. It has been confirmed by a CSK insider that there is no definite date for Dhoni’s comeback, and the decision will depend completely on Dhoni himself. Dhoni, who is suffering from a calf injury, has remained in Chennai to get better and has not moved to attend any matches in Delhi against Delhi Capitals. He is practicing well but is yet not ready to play. However, Dhoni is not being ruled out of this season by CSK, keeping the door open for a possible comeback in the final phase.
In terms of CSK, the loss of Dhoni will not be just the void of another name missing from their squad. In terms of experience, there is no one who can take Dhoni’s place since he continues to be an effective match-winner for CSK. With an impressive career tally of 278 IPL matches in which he has made 5,439 runs with an average of 38.30, alongside a strike rate of 137.45 and 24 half-centuries, it is obvious how Dhoni still plays the part of a finisher.
Dhoni set to miss Delhi clash
There is a lot of speculation that Dhoni is unlikely to play in the next match against the Delhi Capitals. He has not accompanied the team on tour and is undergoing treatment in Chennai. While he is participating in practice sessions like batting and wicket keeping, he does not seem to be fit enough to participate in matches yet.
The team management has not set a deadline yet. On their part, they have made it clear that it is up to Dhoni when he wants to play. That being said, Dhoni has not played even a single match this year. In fact, his last appearance in IPL was way back in May 2025.
CSK’s playoff dreams alive
On the other hand, it has to be stated that it is now a decisive moment for CSK. At this point, they find themselves sixth in the league with four victories out of nine. Their playoff hopes are still alive, yet their chance will depend greatly on how many of the five matches left will be won. Indeed, they have had a bad start to the season when they suffered three defeats in a row. However, CSK responded with important wins, including two victories over Mumbai Indians.
Still, they bounced back with several significant victories, including two against the reigning champions – Mumbai Indians. But despite some good moments, inconsistency remains the biggest problem for them. Several key players suffer from injuries which makes things even more complicated. At the same time, young players prove to have potential but fail to demonstrate consistent results under pressure. There seems to be no one who could act as a game changer.
As for the upcoming games, the situation will not get easier for the team. It has to play against such powerful teams as Lucknow Super Giants, Sunrisers Hyderabad, and Gujarat Titans.
