MS Dhoni (Image credit: BCCI/IPL)
New Delhi: The big question dominating the build-up to Chennai Super Kings’ high-voltage clash against Mumbai Indians is simple – will MS Dhoni finally play in IPL 2026?CSK batting coach Michael Hussey gave an encouraging update, revealing that the former skipper is making steady progress in his recovery from a calf injury that has kept him out for the past three weeks.“I hope he will be back as soon as possible. I don’t know if it’s tomorrow or it’s the next game after that, but he’s progressing really well,” Hussey said on the eve of the match in Chibok.Recovery is on track, but final call is with DonnieHussey stressed that while Dhoni’s skills remained intact, the focus was on getting him back to full fitness – especially in the final stages of the innings.“I know he was increasing his running speed and that was probably the sticking point.
“I think we are very confident from a skill perspective in his batting and wicket-keeping,” Hussey explained.“But it was just about making sure he can maintain good running power, especially at the end of the half where he’s going to have to look for those guys and doubles. So once he has confidence in his calf, I’m sure he’ll give it the sign of ready to go.”But the decision ultimately lies with Dhoni himself.
“Once he feels confident in his calf, I’m sure he will give a signal that he is ready to go. Right now, we are guided by him. We are waiting. I think the whole of Chennai is waiting,” Hussey added.Stay away to avoid distractionsInterestingly, Dhoni was not present in the dugout during matches, a deliberate choice to keep the spotlight away from the team.“He’s a team-oriented guy, MS Dhoni. He always wants what’s best for the team and was worried that if he came, there would be a lot of distraction,” Hussey revealed.“Obviously the cameras were going to be on him a lot. The crowd was cheering him on… He really wanted the team to be able to do their job.”Despite his absence on match days, Dhoni remains actively involved behind the scenes. “He’s been watching closely at home. He’s training all the time… He has a fun personality and brings a lot of his experience,” Hussey said.