IPL 2026: Dhoni to return 'any match now'? CSK batting coach drops big comeback hint

Fans of Chennai Super Kings have been eagerly waiting, and there’s finally some positive news. Batting coach Michael Hussey has hinted that MS Dhoni could return to action in the ongoing IPL 2026 season very soon, as he continues to recover from a calf injury.

The update has sparked excitement among supporters, with MS Dhoni IPL 2026 return, CSK Dhoni injury update, and Dhoni comeback news trending heavily among cricket fans.

Dhoni Avoided Matches to Keep Focus on Team

Speaking ahead of CSK’s big clash, Michael Hussey explained that Dhoni’s absence from matches so far has been a deliberate decision.


“He's such a team-oriented guy, MS Dhoni. He always wants what's best for the team, and he was worried that if he came, there'd be a bit too much of a distraction,” Hussey said.

He added that Dhoni felt his presence might shift attention away from the players. “Obviously, the cameras would be on him a lot. The crowd would be cheering for him… and he really wanted the team to just go about their job.”

This insight highlights why MS Dhoni not playing IPL 2026 matches has been less about fitness alone and more about maintaining team focus.

Injury Kept Dhoni Out of IPL 2026 So Far

MS Dhoni has not featured in a single match this season after suffering a calf muscle injury during the pre-season camp.

Despite this, he has remained actively involved with the squad, regularly attending practice sessions and net training. Videos of his training have frequently surfaced online, keeping CSK fans Dhoni updates buzzing.

‘He’s Progressing Well’: Hussey on Dhoni Comeback

There is now growing optimism around Dhoni’s return. Michael Hussey confirmed that the veteran cricketer is making steady progress in recovery.

“Hopefully, he'll be back as soon as possible. I don't know if it's tomorrow or maybe the next match after that, but he's progressing really well,” Hussey said.

He further explained that Dhoni has been increasing his running intensity, which was the main concern. “I know he's been upping his running speeds, and that was probably the sticking point.”

Fitness Key to Dhoni’s IPL 2026 Return

While Dhoni’s batting and wicketkeeping abilities are not in question, the focus remains on ensuring he is fully match-fit.

“I think we're very confident from a skill perspective… but it was just making sure that he could maintain good running power, particularly towards the back end of an inning,” Hussey noted.

He added, “As soon as he's got the confidence in his calf, then I'm sure he'll give it the tick to be ready to go.”

CSK Fans Await Dhoni Comeback in IPL 2026

With Indian Premier League 2026 heating up, the potential return of MS Dhoni could provide a major boost for Chennai Super Kings.

For now, fans across Chennai and beyond continue to wait, with Dhoni comeback IPL 2026, CSK Dhoni return date, and MS Dhoni injury recovery dominating conversations.

And if Hussey’s words are anything to go by, that wait might not be much longer.

Inputs from agencies