Watch: Fans loudly welcome MS Dhoni in Hyderabad before SRH vs CSK IPL 2026 clash

The former Indian captain MS Dhoni, under whose captaincy India won the 2007 T20 World Cup and 2011 ODI World Cup, has a craze all over India. Recently, it has been seen in Hyderabad, while the former Chennai Super Kings captain MS Dhoni landed with his family ahead of their upcoming away game against SunRisers Hyderabad. 

While the CSK have already played five matches in the ongoing IPL 2026 season, MS Dhoni hasn't played yet due to a calf injury, which he sustained during the pre-tournament practice session. CSK fans are badly missing the wicketkeeper-batter, especially when the five-time IPL champions had a bad start. Although the new wicketkeeper-batter Sanju Samson, who is now popular in Indian cricket, especially after his stunning successful journey in the recently concluded ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026, the 44-year-old Dhoni is still in the hearts of CSK fans. 

While CSK will play their next IPL 2026 game against the hosts SRH on Saturday evening, Dhoni landed in Hyderabad with his wife and daughter. As Dhoni was going towards the bus, the fans were cheering and welcoming the former Indian captain. 

See Also: Watch: Rohit Sharma’s reaction goes viral on Shreyas Iyer’s catch during MI vs PBKS clash in IPL 2026

CSK back on track with two consecutive wins

After finishing in the 10th place in the IPL 2025, their worst-ever IPL season, CSK had a poor start in the IPL 2026 by suffering big losses in their first three games of the season. Starting with an 8-wicket defeat against Rajasthan Royals, CSK lost against Punjab Kings and Royal Challengers Bengaluru by 5 wickets and 43 runs, respectively. However, in their next two games, CSK got back on track with back-to-back home wins against Delhi Capitals and Kolkata Knight Riders by 23 runs and 32 runs, respectively. 

When can MS Dhoni play for CSK in IPL 2026?

Although Dhoni landed in Hyderabad, his return to the game is yet to be confirmed. There are some positive news regarding his present fitness status, as he is in the recovery process. CSK team management isn't rushing for his comeback, while the latest TOI report claims that he could return to the game next week. According to that report, Dhoni could represent CSK for the first time this season either during the away match against Mumbai Indians on April 23 or the home game against Gujarat Titans on April 26.