IPL 2026: Chennai Super Kings (CSK) fans have received a massive boost as legendary wicketkeeper batter MS Dhoni has officially returned to the practice nets. After missing the season opener against Rajasthan Royals due to an injury, the former captain was seen carrying his kit bag and heading to the field in a video that has now gone viral on social media.

The sight of "Thala" walking comfortably has created a stir among the Yellow Army. CSK suffered a heavy eight-wicket defeat in their first match on March 30, and the team clearly missed the finishing power and tactical guidance of their veteran star.

MS Dhoni Injury Update

On March 28, the Chennai Super Kings management had released a statement saying Dhoni would be out of action for approximately two weeks while undergoing rehab. However, the latest footage shared by the franchise suggests his recovery might be ahead of schedule.

In the videos surfacing on X (formerly Twitter), Dhoni appears to be moving without any visible discomfort. While he was seen practicing his trademark big hits in the nets, the team has not yet officially confirmed if he is 100% match-fit.

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Kodiyil Oruvan! 🦁💛#WhistlePodu #Yellove pic.twitter.com/SuztJYGNzr
— Chennai Super Kings (@ChennaiIPL) April 1, 2026

Lastest MS Dhoni practice session Video 🐐💛#MSDhoni pic.twitter.com/CsYby9D7Le
— Manoj (@Jvm_Manoj) April 1, 2026

~ MS DHONI IN THE PRACTICE SESSION. 💛🦁 pic.twitter.com/5LMqXaiGfT
— Prabakaran (@Prabaofficial98) April 1, 2026

CSK’s Upcoming Schedule and Dhoni’s Role

Chennai Super Kings are scheduled to play their second league match against Punjab Kings on April 3 at the MA Chidambaram Stadium. Following that, they will travel to Bengaluru to face Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) on April 5.

If Dhoni returns for the Punjab game, it would provide a much-needed lift to the middle order. In his legendary IPL career, Dhoni has played 278 matches and scored 5439 runs at an average of 38.30. His strike rate of 137.45 and 24 half-centuries make him one of the most dangerous finishers even at this stage of his career.

Fans are now waiting for the final team sheet on Friday to see if the "Defensive Wall" of Chennai is back to lead the charge at Chepauk.

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