The match dubbed the "El Clásico of the IPL" is set to take place this evening at 7:30 PM at Mumbai's Wankhede Stadium. Neither the Mumbai Indians nor the Chennai Super Kings have had a particularly impressive season so far. Ahead of this marquee clash, one question is weighing on the minds of all cricket fans: will MS Dhoni play his first match today, or not? So, what are the latest updates regarding the Chennai Super Kings? Let's find out in this article.

The start of the IPL 2026 season has been rather lackluster for both teams. For years, both franchises have dominated the IPL, but the last few seasons have not gone well for either side. This season, too—under the leadership of Hardik Pandya—Mumbai Indians have managed to secure victory in only two of their six matches, while facing defeat in the remaining four. MI currently sits at the 6th position on the points table.

On the other hand, the five-time IPL champions, Chennai Super Kings—under the captaincy of Ruturaj Gaikwad—have managed to secure victories in only two of the six matches played so far, while facing defeat in four. CSK currently sits in the seventh position on the points table. From the team's strike bowler, Khaleel Ahmed, being ruled out of the tournament due to injury, to their sole in-form batsman, Ayush Mhatre, also being sidelined due to an injury, everything has gone against Chennai.

In this critical situation, the sole hope in everyone's mind rests with MS Dhoni; if he returns to the Playing XI, the team will find renewed hope.

Why Dhoni’s Return Matters

If MS Dhoni plays today, it would be a huge boost for Chennai Super Kings. His presence adds:

• Valuable experience under pressure
• Smart game awareness and tactical guidance
• Strong wicketkeeping skills
• Finishing ability in the lower order
• Massive confidence boost for fans and teammates

Will MS Dhoni Play Today?

As of now, the Chennai Super Kings franchise has not made any official announcement confirming MS Dhoni's inclusion in the Playing XI. However, the entire team at icccricketschedule is confident that Dhoni could make a comeback to the Playing XI today—a glimpse of which we witnessed in the nets, where MSD was seen practicing both wicketkeeping and batting.

CSK Predicted Playing 11 against Mumbai Indians

Sanju Samson, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Sarfaraz Khan, Shivam Dube, Dewald Brevis, Kartik Tyagi / Prashant Veer, MS Dhoni, Jamie Overton, Anshul Kamboj, Matt Henry, Noor Ahmad, Mukesh Choudhary