Chennai Super Kings bowling coach Eric Simons confirmed that a final call on Dhoni's availability will be taken closer to the match. "(Regarding) MS, we will know tomorrow. That decision will be made once he, in particular, and the medical staff are completely happy that he is ready to go," Simons said.
The wicketkeeper-batter has missed the opening phase of IPL 2026 due to a calf strain, missing many IPL matches for CSK. However, recent developments have offered encouraging signs.
During a training session at the Wankhede Stadium, the 44-year-old underwent an intensive on-field workout that included both wicketkeeping and batting drills. Dhoni spent close to 40 minutes behind the stumps in the nets, with Sarfaraz Khan and Urvil Patel taking turns with the bat. It marked one of his first extended wicketkeeping sessions of the season and a key step in his recovery.
Despite the positive signs, CSK are expected to tread carefully. With Sanju Samson currently handling wicketkeeping duties, the team management is unlikely to rush Dhoni back into full action. If declared fit, he could be deployed as an impact player to better manage his workload.