When will MS Dhoni return to play in IPL 2026? CSK captain Ruturaj Gaikwad provides a major update

Chennai Super Kings have had a rough start to the IPL 2026 campaign. The 5-time winners lost both the matches they have played so far in the competition, and are staring at a third consecutive defeat, considering Royal Challengers Bengaluru have amassed a gigantic total of 250/3 in 20 overs after batting first in game 11 of the tournament at M Chinnaswamy Stadium.

Witnessing the RCB vs CSK match, Chennai fans are missing the absence of the franchise's talisman, MS Dhoni, and wondering when the legend will return to rescue them. To their disappointment, it was reported ahead of the start of the season that Dhoni had sustained a calf injury and would remain out for at least two weeks. Only one week has passed since the unfortunate development was conveyed by CSK, and fanatics are awaiting an update about his recovery.

Chennai captain Ruturaj Gaikwad was asked to provide the latest status of Dhoni during the toss in the match against RCB, and he had some words to disseminate.

According to Gaikwad, Dhoni is recovering steadily and may return to the field soon.

"MS is getting back slowly. Sometimes it takes time; if he's ready to play, it'll be soon.

In Dhoni's absence, CSK has looked rudderless. While he may not have the same influence with the bat, he still can change the complexion of the game with the amount of experience he carries with him on the field. Chennai fans and Ruturaj Gaikwad will hope that "Thala" recovers quickly and joins the team as soon as possible.