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MS Dhoni Set for IPL 2026 Comeback? Ashwin "100% Sure" He'll Play vs MI

Ravichandran Ashwin has strongly hinted that MS Dhoni is set to return for Chennai Super Kings in their crucial IPL 2026 clash against Mumbai Indians. Ashwin based his prediction on observing Dhoni's first wicketkeeping session in the nets, suggesting he is fit after a calf strain. He believes Dhoni's experience and power-hitting in the death overs could solve CSK's recent struggles to close out games. The comeback speculation comes as CSK, with only two wins in six matches, faces a major setback with the loss of in-form batter Ayush Mhatre.

Key Points: MS Dhoni IPL 2026 Return Hinted by Ashwin vs Mumbai Indians

  • Ashwin hints at Dhoni's return from injury
  • Dhoni had first wicketkeeping session of IPL 2026
  • Could replace Samson or be Impact Player
  • CSK seeks his finishing power after narrow losses
2 min read

MS Dhoni set for IPL 2026 return? Ashwin hints at comeback vs Mumbai Indians, says "100 per cent sure he will play"

Ravichandran Ashwin says he's "100% sure" MS Dhoni will play for CSK against MI in IPL 2026, citing wicketkeeping nets session and finishing prowess.

"I am 100 per cent sure he will play (against Mumbai Indians). I've heard he's fit and good to go. - Ravichandran Ashwin"

Chennai, April 22

Former Indian cricketer Ravichandran Ashwin believes that legendary wicketkeeper/batter MS Dhoni is likely to feature in Chennai Super Kings' upcoming Indian Premier League clash against Mumbai Indians.

Speaking on his YouTube channel, Ashwin noted that Dhoni's presence in training suggested he could take up wicketkeeping duties, in place of Sanju Samson or be deployed as an Impact Player.

Ashwin expressed confidence that Dhoni is fit and ready to play, adding that his experience and finishing ability could be crucial for CSK, especially after they struggled to close out games.

He emphasised that Dhoni's power-hitting in the final overs makes him a valuable asset in tight situations.

Dhoni had his first wicketkeeping session of the IPL 2026 at the Wankhede Stadium on Tuesday. The 44-year-old has been on the sidelines for CSK's first six matches, recovering from a calf strain.

"I've never seen MS Dhoni keeping the wickets in the nets. This means he will be keeping in place of (Sanju) Samson. Or he might be used as an Impact player. I am 100 per cent sure he will play (against Mumbai Indians). I've heard he's fit and good to go," Ashwin said on his YouTube channel, Ash Ki Baat.

"See against SRH, CSK were found lacking in finishing the game. So if you need 15 off 5 deliveries, Dhoni can do the job. He can hit the sixes towards the end," Ashwin added.

So far, CSK has won only two out of their six IPL 2026 fixtures, losing their previous match against Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) by 10 runs, sitting at eighth spot in the points table. CSK will next play arch-rivals Mumbai Indians (MI) at Wankhede Stadium on April 23.

Ahead of this clash, CSK faced a major blow as their in-form and star batter Ayush Mhatre has been ruled out of IPL 2026.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

P
Priya S
Excited but also a bit worried. He's 44 and coming back from injury. Hope the management isn't rushing him just because we're losing. His long-term health is more important than one match, even if it's against MI.
R
Rohit P
As a die-hard MI fan, even I have to admit the IPL feels incomplete without Dhoni on the field. A CSK vs MI match is the ultimate rivalry. If he plays, it will be epic. Best of luck to him, but hope MI wins! đŸ˜‰
S
Sarah B
Interesting analysis from Ashwin. Using him as an Impact Player is a smart tactical move. It protects him from a full 20 overs in the field but unleashes him at the perfect moment. Modern cricket tactics are fascinating.
V
Vikram M
The article says "in place of Sanju Samson"? That seems like a mistake. Samson plays for RR. Maybe they meant someone else? Anyway, the main point is Dhoni's return. The team's morale will get a huge boost just by seeing him in yellow.
K
Karthik V
Losing Ayush Mhatre is a big blow for CSK's batting. Dhoni's experience is needed now more than ever. He may not score a 50, but those 20 runs off 8 balls in the death can be the difference between winning and losing. #WhistlePodu

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