Concerns Grow Over MS Dhoni's Injury Status as CSK Faces Tough Season Ahead
MS Dhoni's Injury Update from CSK Coach
Chennai Super Kings (CSK) head coach Stephen Fleming has shared troubling news regarding MS Dhoni's injury, as fans eagerly await his return to the field. CSK's chances of making the playoffs took a significant hit following an eight-wicket loss to the Gujarat Titans on April 26. With five defeats in their first eight matches this season, the team finds itself in a must-win scenario to avoid missing the playoffs for the third consecutive year.
Initially, CSK announced that Dhoni would be sidelined for the first two weeks due to a calf injury. However, a month later, his return is still uncertain. Fleming disclosed that Dhoni aggravated his injury during a warm-up match, prompting the team to exercise caution before allowing him to play again. 'He's eager to return, but the calf injury is tricky. If he pushes too hard and injures it again, he could be out longer. He tweaked it again in the warm-up, and since then, he has been focused on rehabilitation,' Fleming explained during a post-match discussion.
In a related note, CSK's batting coach Mike Hussey mentioned that running between the wickets has been a concern. He confirmed that Dhoni will resume his role as wicketkeeper upon his return, dismissing any speculation about him playing solely as an impact substitute. 'I'm confident he will be behind the stumps. The key issue is his calf injury, especially when it comes to running late in the innings. He needs to ensure his calf is strong enough for that,' Hussey stated.
Recently, Dhoni has been seen training vigorously, completing batting drills and wicketkeeping practice. With CSK's next match scheduled in six days, there is hope that he will have adequate time to recover. The Super Kings are set to face the Mumbai Indians at Chepauk on May 3.