Five-time champions Chennai Super Kings (CSK) will take on last season’s finalists Punjab Kings (PBKS) in Match 7 of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 to be played at the iconic MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai today.

CSK endured a disappointing campaign in IPL 2025, finishing at the bottom of the table, and would have aimed for a fresh start this year. However, their campaign began on a poor note as they suffered a heavy defeat to the Rajasthan Royals in Guwahati. After being bowled out for just 127 in 19.4 overs, CSK saw Rajasthan chase down the target comfortably in only 12.1 overs, losing just two wickets. On top of that their star player, Dhoni, also got injured even before the match.

However, there is good news for Chennai Super Kings fans. Dhoni was recently seen training ahead of the IPL 2026 clash against Punjab Kings (on April 3), raising speculation about a quicker-than-expected return from the calf strain that ruled him out of the season opener.

The veteran wicketkeeper-batter had missed CSK’s first match against Rajasthan Royals, with the franchise earlier indicating he would be sidelined for around two weeks. However, a video shared by CSK showing Dhoni in full training gear has reignited conversations around his possible availability for today’s game.

Fitness update: Signs positive, but no confirmation

While Dhoni’s presence in training is encouraging, there is still no official confirmation from CSK regarding his inclusion in the playing XI. It’s worth noting that he had also trained ahead of the opener before being ruled out at the last minute—so a final call may depend on match-day fitness.

CSK looking to bounce back

CSK had a rough start to their IPL 2026 campaign, suffering a heavy defeat against Rajasthan Royals. Batting first, they were bowled out for just 127, with only a brief resistance from Jamie Overton. Rajasthan chased down the target comfortably in 12.1 overs, exposing gaps in both CSK’s batting and bowling units.

Why Dhoni’s return matters

If Dhoni does make it back for the Punjab Kings clash, it would be a major boost for CSK. Beyond his batting, his leadership and game awareness remain crucial—especially for a side trying to regain rhythm early in the tournament.

What to expect

Right now, things sit in that familiar Dhoni zone—quiet, uncertain, and slightly dramatic. Training clips suggest progress, but until the team sheet drops, it’s still a waiting game.