MS Dhoni and Will Jacks Near Return for High-Stakes MI vs CSK Showdown at Wankhede

MUMBAI – Chennai Super Kings wicketkeeper MS Dhoni and Mumbai Indians all-rounder Will Jacks are on track to play in Thursday’s marquee Indian Premier League matchup at Wankhede Stadium. Both players completed extensive practice sessions this week, signaling their availability for the highly anticipated rivalry game.

Dhoni Resumes Wicketkeeping After Calf Strain

Dhoni trained intensely in the Chennai Super Kings nets at Wankhede on Tuesday night. The 44-year-old veteran, who sustained a calf strain during the pre-season camp, spent 30 minutes keeping wickets and another 30 minutes batting. Observers noted him striking the ball without visible discomfort. Dhoni had previously joined practice sessions with the squad in Chennai.

Chennai currently sits eighth in the IPL 2026 points table with a 2-4 record. Dhoni’s return provides needed depth to a batting order struggling for consistency.

Will Jacks Boosts Mumbai Indians Middle Order

England international Will Jacks has joined the Mumbai Indians after missing the first six matches of the season. Jacks trained in the Mumbai nets on Monday evening and participated in an optional practice under lights on Tuesday. The 27-year-old off-spinner bowled and batted for nearly an hour.

Jacks enters the tournament following a strong performance in the recent T20 World Cup, where he earned four Player of the Match awards. His arrival strengthens a Mumbai squad coming off a 99-run victory over the Gujarat Titans at Narendra Modi Stadium. Mumbai management withheld the reasons for Jacks’s delayed arrival during the opening weeks of the tournament.

As a middle-order batter and capable off-spinner, Jacks offers Mumbai an established finishing option. His inclusion creates a selection dilemma, likely forcing the team to bench an overseas spinner, such as Allah Ghazanfar or Mitchell Santner.

Injury Updates and Roster Moves

Chennai made additional roster moves ahead of Thursday’s match, integrating Australian fast bowler Spencer Johnson into the squad. Johnson replaces Nathan Ellis and is expected to start. He fills the void left by left-arm fast bowler Khaleel Ahmed, who suffered a season-ending injury last week.

Injuries continue to affect the Chennai lineup. Top-order batter Ayush Mhatre sustained a hamstring tear during their previous match against Sunrisers Hyderabad and will miss the remainder of the tournament.

Team Adjustments Overview

For official broadcast schedules and complete match details, visit the official IPL website or track live scoring via the International Cricket Council.