Chennai Super Kings veteran MS Dhoni’s return will be decided by no one other than Dhoni himself, CSK bowling coach makes it clear for the fans.
MS Dhoni’s absence from the IPL and the initial matches of the tournament has left the fans devastated, and every time the team has lost games, they have pinned the blame on the management for not bringing Dhoni back into the playing XI. It was further heightened when Dhoni was seen practicing in the nets on multiple occasions.
Chennai Super Kings, for the first time in 19 years in the history of the IPL, have played six matches in the tournament without MS Dhoni featuring in any of the games. Despite the legendary cricketer being 44 years old, fans are still more than thrilled to witness him bat on the crease.
MS Dhoni to decide on his own Comeback; CSK management has a role
The Chennai Super Kings management has been blamed on multiple occasions for Dhoni’s absence from the league. However, the reality is that the veteran cricketer is taking some time and is not willing to hasten his comeback.
However, the CSK bowling coach Eric Simmons has now finally revealed in the pre-match day press meet that MS Dhoni will decide on his own return after consulting with the medical staff, and if he is ready to go, he will play.
His words indirectly meant that he, alongside the batting coach Michael Hussey and even head coach Stephen Fleming, both of whom once played under his leadership, has no role in this decision.
Who will MS Dhoni replace in the CSK playing XI?
MSD will return to the Chennai Super Kings’ playing XI, and if he does, then any of the in-form players will have to make their way out of the team. Most likely, Sarfaraz Khan is going to make way for the wicket-keeper batsman.
Dhoni will never be used as an impact player, as he can only be used as a wicket-keeper batter. MS Dhoni was seen practicing wicket-keeping in the nets behind Sanju Samson’s batting. However, nothing has been confirmed if he is likely to return against the Mumbai Indians.
Eric Simmons announces Spencer Johnson’s inclusion into the playing XI against MI
The CSK bowling coach Eric Simmons revealed that Chennai Super Kings will be making a massive change to the playing XI in their upcoming game against the Mumbai Indians at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai.
Simmons has revealed that Spencer Johnson, the left-arm pacer who has starred for years in the IPL, will return to the playing XI; however, this will be his first time for the Super Kings.
He revealed that though Khaleel Ahmed and Anshul Kamboj have been really promising for them, Khaleel’s injury has brought up Spencer Johnson’s chance to feature in the playing XI. He is most likely to replace either Noor Ahmed or all-rounder Matt Short.
Chennai Super Kings bowling coach Eric Simmons: “Khaleel Ahmed & Anshul Kamboj have been really good for us. Spender Johnson (Khaleel’s replacement), will be in our starting XI tomorrow night.” #CSKvsMI @ChennaiIPL pic.twitter.com/dJo6TJZqt9
— Gaurav Gupta (@toi_gauravG) April 22, 2026
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