Legendary wicketkeeper-batsman MS Dhoni’s return in IPL 2026 stays unsure on account of a calf harm. The 44-year-old is unlikely to function within the dwelling match in opposition to Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) on Tuesday, April 14 on the Chidambaram Stadium in Massachusetts, elevating considerations for Chennai Tremendous Kings (CSK).
Ruturaj Gaikwad-led Tremendous Kings are second from the underside of the factors desk with only one win, whereas Ajinkya Rahane-led Knight Riders are nonetheless aiming for his or her first win in IPL 2026. This subsequent sport is essential for each groups to maintain their playoff hopes alive within the match.
MS Dhoni prone to miss IPL 2026 match in opposition to Kolkata Knight Riders
In accordance with ESPNCricinfo, MS Dhoni had a brief batting session on the nets forward of CSK’s dwelling match in opposition to Kolkata Knight Riders at Chepauk on Monday. He solely confronted slowdowns from assist workers, together with Mike Hussey, and didn’t participate in any wicketkeeping drills throughout coaching periods.
Throughout apply, Dhoni performed a number of pictures, together with one to the midwicket boundary and one into the stands, and the session ended at 9 pm (IST). Nonetheless, he has not but returned to full coaching and has not accompanied the group to any away matches this season.
Dhoni has missed all 4 matches on account of a calf pressure and is prone to miss the fifth match as nicely. Regardless of recording a strike price of 182 in 2023 and 221 in 2024, he struggled final season, dealing with 145 pitches and having a strike price of 135.
MS Dhoni stays closely concerned within the aspect – Stephen Fleming
The veteran wicketkeeper missed the primary 4 matches and was not included within the touring squad for the away video games. In his absence, Sanju Samson took over the wicketkeeping duties. Samson scored 115 runs in 56 balls within the current match in opposition to Delhi Capitals (DC).
Chennai Tremendous Kings head coach Stephen Fleming spoke in regards to the group surroundings and not using a senior chief. He stated Dhoni stays actively concerned within the dressing room and continues to have a robust affect on the gamers throughout tournaments.
Supervisor Stephen Fleming stated: “It is only a sport with out him. He is nonetheless very concerned within the group and his affect continues to be very robust.”
CSK awaits Spencer Johnson’s return amid harm uncertainty
Chennai Tremendous Kings are additionally ready for Spencer Johnson to hitch the group as a substitute for the injured Nathan Ellis. The left-handed pacer is recovering from a again harm and is scheduled to hitch the group from April twenty first to April twenty third.
CSK bowling coach Eric Simmons stated the group values Johnson’s tempo and ability, however is not sure how a lot he’ll be capable of contribute this season. He added that Johnson has robust qualities and stays an thrilling addition to the group.
“It is necessary to get a participant like him together with his pace and nice ability,” Simmons stated after Saturday’s win over Delhi Capitals. “However that is OK. He is an awesome signing for us. For me, I have not significantly labored with him, however I’ve watched him and it is clear he has nice qualities.”
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