IPL 2026: Dhoni’s Return Further Delayed, Head Coach Stephen Fleming Hints at Setback

Chennai

Chennai Super Kings head coach Stephen Fleming has indicated that Mahendra Singh Dhoni’s return in IPL 2026 will be further delayed. The veteran wicketkeeper-batsman has suffered another setback while recovering from a calf injury.

Fans were उम्मीद that Dhoni would return after missing the first two weeks of the tournament, but he has now been out for nearly a month. Chennai Super Kings have already played eight matches this season, and the former captain has not featured in any of them.

Speaking after CSK’s defeat to Gujarat Titans on Sunday, Fleming revealed that Dhoni’s injury worsened during a practice session, complicating his recovery. Initially, the injury was considered minor.

“He is very eager to play,” Fleming said. “However, calf injuries are tricky. If he pushes too hard and strains it again, he could be ruled out for the entire tournament. We tested him during a warm-up match, but unfortunately, the injury flared up again. Since then, he has been working hard on recovery, but he suffered another setback, so his return is taking longer than we expected.”

Fleming emphasized that the final decision regarding Dhoni’s return will rest with the player himself, while the support staff continues to monitor his progress closely.

“In this case, he is guiding us,” Fleming added. “He is working closely with the physio and completing all his rehabilitation processes. We are waiting for the next update, but one thing is clear—he is improving and doing everything possible to come back.”

Despite missing matches, Dhoni has been actively participating in training sessions. He has been regularly seen practicing batting in the nets, focusing mainly on throwdowns. In recent days, he has gradually increased his workload. On Saturday, he was seen running under the supervision of the team physio and later faced spin bowlers and batting coach Michael Hussey.

Earlier, ahead of the match against Mumbai Indians at Wankhede Stadium, Dhoni was also spotted wearing wicketkeeping gloves during practice.

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