New Delhi: Big question all around MS Dhoni IPL 2026 continues to dominate the chatter – when will he return, and will he play against Sunrisers Hyderabad today? Fans are eagerly waiting for a glimpse of the brilliant wicketkeeper-batsman. Chennai Super Kings Prepare to face SRH at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium on Saturday.Dhoni was recently seen batting in the nets, hitting the ball cleanly and even clearing the ropes with ease. CSK shared a video on Instagram showing them in good touch, which only added to the excitement among the fans.Will Dhoni play today?The answer, currently, is no. Dhoni, who is recovering from a calf strain, is not expected to play against SRH. Although the initial two-week recovery period is over, the team is taking a cautious approach.However, his return may not be far away. TOI sources Indications are that his rehabilitation is progressing well, and he could return either for the match against Mumbai Indians at the Wankhede Stadium on April 23 or against the Gujarat Titans at the MA Chidambaram Stadium on April 26.Dhoni suffered an injury during a practice session just before the IPL which ruled him out for the initial weeks. “He is still rehabbing and we don’t want to take any chances with his fitness,” CSK sources said.
In terms of numbers, Dhoni is one of the most consistent performers in the league. In 278 IPL matches, he has scored 5,439 runs in 242 innings at an average of 38.30 and a strike rate of 137.45, including 24 fifties and a highest score of 84*. He is currently the sixth highest run scorer in IPL history.Last season, despite CSK finishing bottom, Dhoni scored 196 runs in 13 innings at an average of 24.50 and a strike rate above 135. He was retained by CSK as an uncapped player for IPL 2025 for Rs 4 crore, and the same deal continues for IPL 2026.Coming into this match, CSK will be looking to extend their winning streak to three games, while SRH will aim to make the most of home advantage, having won two of their five matches so far.
