At a glance
- Dhoni seen wicketkeeping in nets for the first time this season
- CSK eye timely boost ahead of Mumbai Indians clash
- Defeat to Sunrisers Hyderabad highlights need for experience
The sight of MS Dhoni back behind the stumps has injected fresh intrigue into IPL 2026, with the veteran’s return for Chennai Super Kings now appearing closer than ever.
Having missed the opening stretch of the campaign due to a calf injury, Dhoni’s gradual progression has been closely monitored, and this latest development offers the clearest indication yet that he could be nearing full match fitness at a crucial stage of the tournament. View the full list of upcoming IPL fixtures here.
Dhoni’s Surprise Nets Session Raises Hopes
During a recent practice session in Mumbai, Dhoni was seen fully kitted out with pads, helmet and wicketkeeping gloves, a notable shift from his typically cautious rehabilitation routine following a calf injury. The development comes at a crucial juncture as CSK gear up for a high-stakes clash against the Mumbai Indians at the Wankhede Stadium.
Former India cricketer Aditya Tare, speaking on JioStar’s broadcast coverage, admitted the moment caught him by surprise:
“I was watching the practice session, and what surprised me the most is Mahi bhai keeping wickets. I have never seen him wear wicketkeeping gloves in a net session before.”
A Big Shift in Recovery Routine
Tare pointed to what he described as a clear change in Dhoni’s approach during recovery.
“He had his helmet, pads and keeping gloves on. He is probably testing his match-fitness after the calf injury.”
The 44-year-old has largely limited himself to batting drills and light routines in previous sessions, making this a significant step forward. Tare further underlined the importance of the development:
“This is the first time I have seen him keep wickets this year. That is a good sign. CSK might have him back on the field very soon.”
CSK Look to Bounce Back After Narrow Defeat
The timing could prove vital for Chennai, who are looking to bounce back from a narrow 10-run defeat to Sunrisers Hyderabad in their last outing. Sri Lankan seamer Eshan Malinga starred in that contest, returning impressive figures of 3-29 to stall CSK’s chase.
Currently languishing in the lower half of the table, Chennai have struggled for consistency in IPL 2026. Dhoni’s potential return would offer not just balance behind the stumps but also invaluable leadership in pressure situations.
With a marquee showdown against Mumbai Indians looming, anticipation continues to build. If this shift in routine is anything to go by, CSK supporters may not have to wait much longer to see their talisman back where he belongs.
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