CSK monitor MS Dhoni’s recovery as calf injury persists; Rohit Sharma remains doubtful for MI

Chennai Super Kings are hopeful for MS Dhoni’s return in the later stages of the tournament, while Mumbai Indians await clarity on Rohit Sharma’s hamstring recovery.

The Chennai Super Kings (CSK) camp is maintaining a cautious but optimistic watch over MS Dhoni’s fitness as the team prepares to face Delhi Capitals (DC) on Tuesday. The veteran wicketkeeper-batsman has stayed back in Chennai to continue his rehabilitation for a persistent calf injury, missing the squad’s travel to New Delhi. This development comes alongside lingering uncertainty in the Mumbai Indians (MI) dugout regarding Rohit Sharma’s availability for their upcoming fixtures.

Dhoni continues rehab in Chennai

MS Dhoni’s absence from the playing XI has been a recurring theme this season, with the former captain yet to feature in the IPL 2026 edition. Sources within the CSK management indicate that while Dhoni is working closely with the medical team, he is currently not match-ready. His last competitive outing was during the 2025 season finale against Gujarat Titans, nearly a year ago.

The decision to keep him in Chennai for specialized treatment suggests the franchise is prioritizing his long-term availability for the final leg of the league stage.

Management hopeful for late comeback

Despite the missed games, the CSK management isn't ready to rule him out just yet. With five league matches still on the horizon, there is a window for a potential return if his recovery accelerates. "He should be available at some stage," a senior CSK official was quoted as saying, though no specific date has been committed to.

The team’s schedule remains dense, with a clash against Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) on May 10 following the Delhi fixture. The medical staff is reportedly assessing his progress on a day-to-day basis to avoid aggravating the muscle tear.

Playoff math gets tougher for CSK

The on-field impact of missing such a massive figure is reflected in the points table. Currently sitting at sixth position with four wins from nine matches, the Yellow Army finds itself in a precarious spot. To guarantee a passage into the playoffs without relying on other results, CSK essentially needs to win at least four of their remaining five encounters.

The upcoming stretch—including two games against Delhi and a high-stakes meeting with Sunrisers Hyderabad—will define their season. The lack of Dhoni’s finishing touch and tactical input from behind the stumps has been felt in close-run chases this year.

Uncertainty over Rohit Sharma’s return

Parallel to the Dhoni saga, Mumbai Indians are facing their own leadership and selection headaches. Rohit Sharma has been sidelined since April 12 due to a hamstring strain, an injury that has coincided with a slump in MI’s form. In the five matches Rohit has sat out, the franchise has managed only a single victory, sliding down the rankings.

There were, however, encouraging sights at the Wankhede Stadium recently. Rohit was seen engaging in an extended batting session following a series of fitness drills. While he looked comfortable against the nets, the final call on his participation against LSG remains with the player himself.

Crucial week for veteran stars

As the 19th season of the IPL enters its business end, the fitness of these two stalwarts remains the biggest talking point for broadcasters and fans alike. For CSK, the journey ends on May 21 against Gujarat Titans, a game they hope will feature Dhoni back in his usual slot. For Mumbai, the return of Rohit is seen as the only catalyst that could spark a late-season revival to save their campaign.