New Delhi: Chennai Super Kings (CSK) are set for a massive boost ahead of their upcoming clash against Delhi Capitals (DC) in the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026, as MS Dhoni and Dewald Brevis are reportedly close to attaining full fitness. Dhoni is reportedly set to undergo a fitness test, while Brevis is also closing in on a return.
As per a report in the Indian Express, Dhoni will undergo a fitness test in the next couple of days, and he will return to the playing XI against Delhi Capitals if he passes it. Having lost their first three matches in a row in IPL 2026, CSK will be desperately looking to return to winning ways when they lock horns with DC at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai on Saturday, April 11.
Dhoni is currently recovering from a calf injury, which ruled him out of CSK’s first three matches of the season. The former CSK skipper has avoided travelling with the squad for away matches to focus on his recovery and was also not in attendance at the Chepauk during CSK’s first home game against Punjab Kings last week.
However, the 44-year-old was seen batting in the nets and taking part in the team’s practice session ahead of CSK’s clash against Punjab Kings at home. Though CSK are wary of not rushing him into action, the break of 5 days before their clash against DC might put Dhoni in contention for a spot in the playing XI if he manages to clear the fitness test.
Dewald Brevis also close to returning for CSK
CSK are set to be further boosted by the much-anticipated return of Brevis, who has been dearly missed in the ongoing season. The South African batter suffered a side strain during practice ahead of CSK’s opener against Rajasthan Royals in Guwahati. He was expected to miss only one game but has not featured in any of CSK’s first three matches of the season, making his absence an extended one.
His absence has affected CSK’s batting combination and hurt them severely. Brevis, who is known for his his swashbuckling style of batting and impactful knocks, can help CSK spark a turnaround after their horror start. He is likely to be fit for CSK’s upcoming clash against DC, as hinted by head coach Stephen Fleming in the post-match presser after the RCB game.
“We hope he is going to be right for the next game. We have five days between the next game. We have been conservative and hopefully, these next five days go as well as we have planned, and he is ready to go. It’s a big loss but we are looking forward to getting him back,” Fleming said about Brevis’ return.
CSK have endured a difficult start to the season, losing three matches in a row and will be hoping to bounce back to winning ways when they take on DC in their next game at home. The five-time champions will also hope for their captain Gaikwad and opener Sanju Samson to step up after three consecutive failures.