The decision on the return of Chennai Super Kings veteran MS Dhoni will be taken by none other than Dhoni himself, the CSK bowling coach has made it clear to the fans.
MS Dhoni’s absence in the IPL and the initial matches of the tournament has disappointed the fans, and whenever the team loses the game, they have blamed the management for not bringing Dhoni back in the playing eleven. This was further enhanced when Dhoni was seen practicing in the nets on several occasions.
Chennai Super Kings have played six matches in the tournament without MS Dhoni for the first time in 19 years in the history of IPL. Despite this great cricketer being 44 years old, fans are still thrilled to see him bat at the crease.
MS Dhoni will decide his own comeback; CSK management’s role is
The Chennai Super Kings management has been blamed on several occasions for Dhoni’s absence from the league. However, the reality is that the veteran cricketer is taking some time off and does not want to rush his comeback.
However, CSK bowling coach Eric Simmons has now revealed in the pre-match day press meet that MS Dhoni will decide on his comeback after consulting the medical staff and will play if he is ready to go.
His words indirectly meant that he, batting coach Michael Hussey and even head coach Stephen Fleming, who once played under him, have no role in this decision.
Who will replace MS Dhoni in CSK’s playing eleven?
MSD will return to the playing eleven of Chennai Super Kings and if he does so, one of the in-form players will have to leave the team.
Eric Simmons announces inclusion of Spencer Johnson in the playing eleven against MI
CSK bowling coach Eric Simmons revealed that Chennai Super Kings will make massive changes to the playing XI in their upcoming match against Mumbai Indians at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai.
Simmons has revealed that left-arm fast bowler Spencer Johnson, who has performed brilliantly in the IPL over the years, will return to the playing eleven; However, this will be his first time for the Super Kings.
He revealed that although Khaleel Ahmed and Anshul Kamboj have been really promising for them, Khaleel’s injury has given Spencer Johnson a chance to be included in the playing eleven. There is every possibility of him replacing Noor Ahmed or all-rounder Matt Short.
Chennai Super Kings bowling coach Eric Simmons: “Khalil Ahmed and Anshul Kamboj have been really good for us. Spender Johnson (Khalil’s replacement), will be in our starting XI tomorrow night.” #CSKvsMI @ChennaiIPL pic.twitter.com/dJo6TJZqt9
— Gaurav Gupta (@toi_gauravG) 22 April 2026
Read also: Mumbai Indians share official bulletin regarding Rohit Sharma’s injury ahead of CSK clash
