New Delhi : The talk of the town ahead of the high-stakes clash between Chennai Super Kings and Mumbai Indians at Chepauk on Saturday, May 2, is whether MS Dhoni will finally return to action for the yellow brigade. The 44-year-old has been missing from the playing XI throughout IPL 2026, and fans have been eagerly awaiting clarity on his comeback. Now, former CSK teammate Suresh Raina has dropped a strong hint that Dhoni could be back for this crucial encounter.
Dhoni has not featured in the tournament so far due to a calf injury he sustained before the season began. Although he has travelled with the squad across venues, he has consistently stayed back at the team hotel on match days, avoiding the spotlight and allowing the team to function without the added attention his presence naturally brings.
Speaking on a pre-match show on JioStar, Raina suggested that the wait might finally be over. “He might play tonight,” Raina said when asked if he had any inside information regarding Dhoni’s return for the MI game. The remark has only heightened anticipation among fans and followers of the franchise. Fellow commentator Aakash Chopra also echoed similar sentiments, further fueling speculation.
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Meanwhile, CSK batting coach Michael Hussey provided insight into Dhoni’s decision to remain away from matchday environments. He explained that Dhoni has deliberately chosen to keep a low profile to prevent becoming a distraction.
“He’s such a team-oriented guy,” Hussey said at the pre-match press conference. “He always wants what’s best for the team and felt that if he came to the ground, the focus would shift towards him. The cameras would be on him, the crowd would react loudly, and it could take attention away from the players. He wanted the team to go about their job without that added pressure.”
Hussey also clarified that Dhoni is physically capable of contributing with both bat and gloves. However, the only factor delaying his return to the playing XI is his running fitness, which remains the final hurdle.
While there is still no official confirmation from the franchise, the possibility of Dhoni returning against Mumbai Indians—or in the upcoming fixture against Delhi Capitals on May 5—has significantly lifted the excitement around CSK’s campaign and could provide a major boost at a crucial stage of the season.
