MS Dhoni's CSK comeback taking 'longer than we thought', Fleming reveals concerning update: 'Tweaked it again'

Chennai Super Kings (CSK) head coach Stephen Fleming has revealed that MS Dhoni's return in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 is taking longer than expected as he has once again done some damage to his calf.

CSK lost their fifth match of the season on Sunday as Gujarat Titans made light work of the five-time champions, condemning them to an eight-wicket loss. A struggling CSK are now at sixth place in the points table, four points away from the play-off zone.

CSK are now looking for a turn in their fortunes and Dhoni's return could have helped the side. However, the latest update regarding the legend's return is not a positive one.

'Dhoni has tweaked his calf'

Dhoni, 44, has been unable to take part in this year's IPL due to a calf issue that he suffered before the season. He was expected to return just a couple weeks into the season but Fleming has now revealed that the injury has flared up once again.

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“He’s pretty keen (on returning to action). The calf is a tough one though. If he takes off and rips the calf again, he will be gone. We had pushed it early. In a warm-up game, he tweaked it again; it’s my understanding.

"Since then, he has just been working hard to get some movement. But there was a setback. So, it has taken longer than we thought. He’s the guide on this one. And he’s working hard with the physio and doing all the rehab. We’re just waiting for the word, really,” Fleming said during the post-match press conference.

Earlier, report had claimed that Dhoni is fully fit but does not want to replace a young player in the Chennai side.

Dhoni has been seen practicing with the CSK squad, triggering speculations over his much-anticipated return. However, he has not been on the ground during any of CSK's eight matches so far this year.

CSK will be up against arch-rivals Mumbai Indians in their next match on May 2 with both teams desperate for a win.