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MS Dhoni’s return to the Chennai Super Kings playing XI has become one of the biggest talking points of Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026. The legendary wicketkeeper-batter has remained out of the side due to injury recovery, and with Chennai still in the playoff race the discussion around his comeback has only grown stronger.

As CSK prepare to face LSG in Lucknow, fans continue to wait for a positive update on Dhoni’s availability. The veteran has been around the squad and has also appeared in training sessions, but his return to competitive action remains uncertain.

How did MS Dhoni’s injury situation develop during IPL 2026?

The 44-year-old suffered a calf injury shortly before the start of the season and was initially expected to miss only the opening two weeks of the tournament. At the time, the issue was not considered serious, and there was confidence he would be available soon after the campaign got underway.

However, Dhoni’s recovery did not progress as expected. As he started returning to fitness and resumed light training, the calf problem resurfaced and delayed his comeback again. That setback kept him out longer than planned.

His absence has naturally led to constant speculation, especially because there has never been a fixed timeline announced by the franchise. With each passing game, the possibility of his comeback has become a bigger topic among fans.

Why practice videos increased hopes around Dhoni’s comeback

Dhoni has appeared several times in practice videos released by CSK and each clip has triggered fresh excitement among supporters. Whether batting in the nets, interacting with teammates, or going through warm-up drills, his presence has repeatedly suggested that a return may not be far away.

The franchise’s social media posts have only added to the anticipation. Fans have closely followed every visual update, hoping to see signs of him rejoining the playing XI.

At the same time, those videos have also raised expectations that have not yet translated into an actual return. Despite being active in practice, Dhoni has remained unavailable for selection, leaving many supporters disappointed once again.

MS Dhoni did not travel with CSK squad to Lucknow

According to a report by Cricbuzz, Dhoni has not travelled to Lucknow for Chennai’s upcoming clash against LSG on May 15. The veteran is still recovering from the calf issue and has not completed his full recovery process.

The report further stated that team had booked his travel with the rest of the squad. However, he later opted against making the trip as his fitness did not improve enough for match involvement.

So, MS Dhoni is unlikely to feature in the LSG vs CSK clash in Lucknow.

CSK revive playoff hopes with timely winning run

CSK have produced a strong turnaround after a disappointing start to their IPL 2026 campaign. The side had struggled in the early phase and suffered three defeats that left them under pressure in the points table.

But things have changed quickly. Chennai now travel to Lucknow with three consecutive victories and that run has brought them firmly back into playoff contention. They are currently fifth on the table with six wins from 11 matches and remain well placed to challenge for a top-four finish.

Dhoni’s absence has not stopped the side from recovering, with Ruturaj Gaikwad continuing to lead the side strongly. He has handled the captaincy well and guided the team through an important phase.

The batting unit has also stepped up in recent games. Sanju Samson has played a major role, while several younger players in the middle order have added useful contributions.

The bowling department has also found rhythm after a slow start. Noor Ahmad has picked up wickets consistently in the middle overs, while the pace attack has been led by Anshul Kamboj and Jamie Overton.

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