MS Dhoni's Potential Return to IPL: Will He Play Against SRH?

MS Dhoni, who has been out of action due to a calf injury, is reportedly close to returning for CSK in IPL 2026. With the next match against SRH approaching, discussions are heating up about whether he will play and if he should take on the role of an impact player. Opinions vary among cricket experts, with some advocating for his return while others suggest it may be time for him to retire. This article delves into the latest updates on Dhoni's fitness and the implications for CSK's strategy moving forward.

By Narendra Chaudhary Apr 15, 2026, 15:22 IST

MS Dhoni's Comeback on the Horizon

MS Dhoni has been sidelined since the beginning of IPL 2026, but a return seems imminent. The legendary cricketer missed the initial five matches for CSK due to a calf injury, which the team confirmed would keep him out for two weeks. Recent reports from Revsportz indicate that Dhoni is close to full recovery and may participate in the upcoming match against SRH on April 16. According to the report, 'MS Dhoni will decide tomorrow morning whether he will travel to Hyderabad for CSK's match against SRH on Saturday. The former captain, currently recovering from a calf strain, is nearing full fitness.'

Dhoni has been training with the squad, and there was speculation about his inclusion in the game against KKR, but he ultimately did not play. It remains uncertain whether his absence is due to fitness concerns or a strategic decision by the veteran player. CSK struggled initially, losing their first three matches, but they have since bounced back with consecutive victories against the Delhi Capitals and Kolkata Knight Riders. The return of Dewald Brevis and the addition of Akeal Hosein have strengthened the team, and Dhoni's comeback could necessitate adjustments to their winning lineup.

Debate Over Dhoni as an Impact Player

Should MS Dhoni Play As Impact Player?

There is ongoing discussion about the possibility of MS Dhoni taking on the role of an impact player, which has sparked considerable debate within the cricket community. Former Indian cricketer Aakash Chopra previously suggested that if Dhoni is contemplating this role, it might be time for him to retire. He stated, 'You don’t run the team from the dugout; it’s not football. In cricket, being on the field is crucial, and Dhoni’s greatest strength is his ability to read the game better than anyone else. This clarity and conviction define him. I believe this could be his final season.' Chopra also mentioned that Sanju Samson is poised to take over the wicketkeeping duties, potentially even during this season, depending on Dhoni's fitness.

Conversely, some, like Mitchell McClenaghan, support the idea of Dhoni serving as an impact player. He remarked, 'If MS Dhoni is fit, CSK should utilize him as the Impact Player. If the management believes they need a quick scoring boost, especially while chasing, bringing him in as the Impact Sub would maximize his batting skills. This role would minimize his running, allowing him to focus on hitting the ball out of the park and finishing the game effectively.'