MS Dhoni to return for CSK vs MI? R Ashwin 100 per cent sure he'll play

R Ashwin is confident MS Dhoni will play in CSK's upcoming IPL match against MI. He suggested Dhoni might take up wicketkeeping duties or be used as an Impact Player, adding his finishing ability is crucial for the struggling Chennai side.

Former Indian cricketer Ravichandran Ashwin believes that legendary wicketkeeper/batter MS Dhoni is likely to feature in Chennai Super Kings' (CSK) upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) clash against Mumbai Indians (MI).

Speaking on his YouTube channel, Ashwin noted that Dhoni's presence in training suggested he could take up wicketkeeping duties, in place of Sanju Samson or be deployed as an Impact Player.

Ashwin expressed confidence that Dhoni is fit and ready to play, adding that his experience and finishing ability could be crucial for CSK, especially after they struggled to close out games. He emphasised that Dhoni's power-hitting in the final overs makes him a valuable asset in tight situations.

Dhoni Gears Up for Return

Dhoni had his first wicketkeeping session of the IPL 2026 at the Wankhede Stadium on Tuesday. The 44-year-old has been on the sidelines for CSK's first six matches, recovering from a calf strain.

Rule No. 1: Don’t step out when Thala’s behind the stumps Rule No. 2: Read Rule No. 1 again 😂💪#WhistlePodu #Yellove pic.twitter.com/mPYUIb3yuW — Chennai Super Kings (@ChennaiIPL) April 21, 2026

Ashwin Confident in Dhoni's Impact

"I've never seen MS Dhoni keeping the wickets in the nets. This means he will be keeping in place of (Sanju) Samson. Or he might be used as an Impact player. I am 100 per cent sure he will play (against Mumbai Indians). I've heard he's fit and good to go," Ashwin said on his YouTube channel, Ash Ki Baat.

"See against SRH, CSK were found lacking in finishing the game. So if you need 15 off 5 deliveries, Dhoni can do the job. He can hit the sixes towards the end," Ashwin added.

CSK's Struggles Ahead of MI Clash

So far, CSK has won only two out of their six IPL 2026 fixtures, losing their previous match against Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) by 10 runs, sitting at eighth spot in the points table.

CSK will next play arch-rivals Mumbai Indians (MI) at Wankhede Stadium on April 23. Ahead of this clash, CSK faced a major blow as their in-form and star batter Ayush Mhatre has been ruled out of IPL 2026. (ANI)

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