Mahendra Singh Dhoni was spotted keeping wickets at a practice session prior to Chennai Super Kings’ high-stakes match against the Mumbai Indians at the Wankhede Stadium on Wednesday, which has prompted rumors about the former captain’s potential comeback.
Due to an injury, former Indian cricketer Dhoni has not yet played in the 2026 Indian Premier League.
Aditya Tare claimed that, particularly in light of the veteran’s recent calf ailment, he was surprised to see Dhoni donning the wicketkeeping gloves during nets.
“I was watching the practice session, and what surprised me the most is Mahi bhai keeping wickets. I have never seen him wear wicketkeeping gloves in a net session before,” Tare was quoted as saying on JioStar.
Dhoni often restricts himself to batting or light drills during practice sessions, according to former MI cricketer Tare, thus this change is noteworthy as a possible sign of rehabilitation progress.
“He had his helmet, pads, and keeping gloves on. He is probably testing his match fitness after the calf injury,” he noted.
Tare went on to say that although Dhoni had previously batted during practice sessions, this was the first time he had seen him assume wicketkeeping responsibilities this season, which he described as encouraging for CSK.
“This is the first time I have seen him keep wickets this year. That is a good sign. CSK might have him back on the field very soon,” he added.
The Super Kings will play their bitter rivals, the Mumbai Indians, in Mumbai’s famed Wankhede Stadium on April 23.
CSK, who are currently having trouble being consistent in IPL 2026, would benefit greatly from Dhoni’s possible return. The team greatly benefits from his leadership and knowledge, particularly during high-stress games like the forthcoming match against the Mumbai Indians.
