When will MS Dhoni take part in IPL 2026? CSK idol’s return schedule revealed

New Delhi: MS Dhoni may be about to make his much-awaited return chennai super kingsthe veteran will undergo an important fitness test ahead of Saturday’s IPL 2026 match against Delhi Capitals.The 44-year-old missed the season opener due to a calf strain he suffered during training camp. With CSK suffering a three-game losing streak, his possible comeback would be a timely boost for a team looking for stability and leadership.

Fitness test to decide Dhoni’s comeback

According to a report in The Indian Express, Dhoni will undergo a fitness assessment in the next two days, which will determine his availability for the Chepauk match. The team has taken a cautious approach so far, resisting the temptation to rush his return despite making steady progress in practice.Even though Dhoni did not travel with the team for the away matches and was absent from the field for the home match against Kings XI Punjab, he still actively participated in the training sessions. He spent considerable time hitting balls on the MAC B court before that game and later worked out in the main stadium nets without showing any signs of discomfort.The signs are encouraging, but team management is keen to ensure he fully recovers before allowing him to return to action. If he clears the fitness test, Dhoni is likely to feature in CSK’s turning game.

Orders may increase as Brevis approaches

Along with Dhoni, Dewald Breves Also close to returning after recovering from a side strain. The young middle-order batsman missed the first three games but has been traveling with the team, indicating progress in his recovery.Head coach Stephen Fleming confirmed Breivis is “closer” to a return to full fitness. “We’re hopeful he’ll be able to play the next game. We’ve been conservative and hope the next few days go as planned,” Fleming said.Brevis’ return would greatly strengthen a fragile middle order that has struggled to maintain consistency in his absence.