IPL 2026: Major boost as Dewald Brevis set for return ahead of CSK vs DC clash

Three games played, three games lost. This has been Chennai Super Kings (CSK)'s current status in the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026. The 5-time champions are going through a period of transition with a squad filled with youngsters who have almost zero experience in T20 cricket. The three defeats in the IPL are proof of failed captaincy, poor batting and bowling performance, and a lack of presence of mind on the field by the fielders. 

However, the fans might have a sigh of relief as middle-order batter Dewald Brevis is likely to return to the playing XI after being ruled out due to an injury. Along with him, reports suggest that MS Dhoni is also getting ready for the upcoming fixture against Delhi Capitals (DC) on April 11. 

Dewald Brevis likely to return after injury layoff

CSK have a gap of six days after their match against RCB, where they lost by 43 runs, which is a huge margin in T20 cricket. While chasing 251 runs, the middle-order players showed some intent and tried chasing the target. CSK coach Stephen Fleming also mentioned that Brevis is likely to return to the playing XI as he is gradually coming back to shape. This is good news considering the Super Kings' current performance in the tournament. 

"We hope he is going to be right for the next game," Fleming said during the RCB vs CSK game. "We have five days [before] the next game. We have been conservative and hopefully, these next five days go as well as we have planned, and he is ready to go. It's a big loss but we are looking forward to getting him back."

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CSK look to strengthen middle order against DC

The Super Kings have debutants like Prashant Veer, Kartik Sharma, Sarfaraz Khan, and others in the middle-order. However, when it comes to experience, they lack it. While some of the players have managed to perform in the last three games, it's important to have finishers in the playing XI as well. Shivam Dube has not been doing his work well and hence, CSK need a backup plan. 

With the return of Brewis and Dhoni, the middle order is likely to have some experience. The top-order players are not in form, and that's why they have failed to perform in the previous games. CSK still have a good chance of staging a comeback. But, they'll have to win at least nine out of 11 matches from here on, which seems possible. The top-order has to perform and the bowlers need to take wickets early on. 

Fans excited as ‘Baby AB’ nears comeback

The CSK fans are super excited to see Dewald Brevis back in action since he is a proven performer for the franchise. He came in as a replacement in 2025 but stunned the crowd with his six-hitting abilities.