IPL 2026: Chennai Super Kings (CSK) are once again without MS Dhoni for match 33 of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 against Mumbai Indians (MI) at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai on Thursday, April 23, 2026.
The 44-year-old veteran is still recovering from a calf strain sustained during the pre-season and has not received full medical clearance to return to action. Despite travelling with the squad and participating in light training sessions, the CSK management has opted for a cautious approach, prioritising his long-term fitness over an early comeback.
Dhoni’s absence continues to be a major setback for the five-time champions, both in terms of leadership and finishing ability. Having stepped down from captaincy duties, Dhoni was expected to play a key role as a wicketkeeper-batter this season. However, he is yet to feature in IPL 2026.
In his absence, Sanju Samson has taken over wicketkeeping responsibilities, while skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad continues to lead the side. CSK have struggled for consistency so far, managing just two wins from their first six matches and dealing with multiple injury concerns within the squad.
Team officials remain hopeful of Dhoni’s return in the upcoming fixtures, with reports suggesting he could be available for CSK’s next home game, subject to clearing a final fitness test.
Dhoni, one of the most iconic figures in IPL history, has been synonymous with CSK since the league’s inception in 2008 and remains a central figure in the franchise’s legacy. His absence from marquee fixtures like MI vs CSK has been keenly felt by fans, who continue to await his return to the field.
Toss Update
Mumbai Indians captain Hardik Pandya won the toss and elected to bowl first against CSK.
Playing XIs
Mumbai Indians (Playing XI): Quinton de Kock(w), Naman Dhir, Suryakumar Yadav, Hardik Pandya(c), Tilak Varma, Sherfane Rutherford, Mitchell Santner, Jasprit Bumrah, Krish Bhagat, AM Ghazanfar, Ashwani Kumar
Chennai Super Kings (Playing XI): Sanju Samson(w), Ruturaj Gaikwad(c), Sarfaraz Khan, Dewald Brevis, Shivam Dube, Kartik Sharma, Jamie Overton, Noor Ahmad, Anshul Kamboj, Gurjapneet Singh, Mukesh Choudhary
Impact Substitutes:
Mumbai Indians Impact subs: Will Jacks, Raj Bawa, Shardul Thakur, Danish Malewar, Mayank Rawat
Chennai Super Kings Impact subs: Prashant Veer, Matthew Short, Matt Henry, Akeal Hosein, Urvil Patel
