MI vs CSK IPL 2026: MS Dhoni return expected, Rohit Sharma likely returns as both teams fight to keep playoff hopes alive at Wankhede clash
New Delhi: Mumbai Indians will take on Chennai Super Kings in Match 33 of IPL 2026 at Wankhede Stadium on April 23. Both teams enter this match under pressure as they try to keep their playoff hopes alive.
Mumbai Indians and Chennai Super Kings have struggled this season. Both teams have won only 2 out of 6 matches and have 4 points each. Mumbai sit slightly ahead in the points table, while Chennai trail due to a weaker net run rate. This makes the match extremely important, as another loss could push either side closer to elimination.
Hardik Pandya and Ruturaj Gaikwad face leadership pressure
This season marks a transition phase for both teams.
Hardik Pandya is leading Mumbai Indians, while Ruturaj Gaikwad is captaining Chennai Super Kings. Both captains are under pressure to deliver results and match the legacy of former leaders Rohit Sharma and MS Dhoni, who built these teams into IPL powerhouses.
MS Dhoni remains doubtful due to calf injury
The biggest question ahead of the match is the availability of MS Dhoni.
Dhoni has been dealing with a calf injury and has already missed several matches this season. The CSK coaching staff has made it clear that he will only return when he is fully fit. As of now, there is no confirmation about his selection for this match.
Reports suggest Dhoni has resumed training and is close to returning, but the team management may take a last-minute decision. There is a real chance that this could be one of the rare MI vs CSK matches without Dhoni.
Rohit Sharma likely to return after injury
Mumbai Indians have received a positive update on Rohit Sharma.
Rohit missed recent matches due to a hamstring injury. Latest updates suggest he is likely to return for this game, although the team will monitor his fitness before taking a final call.
His return would strengthen Mumbai’s top order and provide stability at the start of the innings.
Ayush Mhatre ruled out of IPL 2026
Chennai Super Kings have already suffered a major setback.
Young batter Ayush Mhatre has been ruled out of the entire IPL 2026 due to a hamstring injury. He picked up the injury earlier in the season and will not take further part in the tournament.
Mhatre had shown promise this season, and his absence weakens CSK’s batting lineup at a crucial stage.
Mumbai Indians gain momentum, CSK struggle for consistency
Mumbai Indians come into this match with renewed confidence.
They recently defeated Gujarat Titans by 99 runs, ending a 4-match losing streak. Tilak Varma played a key role in that victory with a brilliant century.
Chennai Super Kings, however, lost their last match to Sunrisers Hyderabad by 10 runs. The team has struggled with consistency and balance throughout the season.
Wankhede pitch expected to favour batters
The pitch at Wankhede Stadium is expected to help batters.
The surface offers good bounce and pace, which allows stroke play. Fast bowlers may get some swing early in the innings, especially under lights. As the match progresses, batting becomes easier, while spinners may get some help in the middle overs.
The average first innings score is around 170. Teams chasing have done better at this venue, so the captain winning the toss is likely to bowl first.
Weather conditions are expected to be warm and humid during the match.
Also Read :RR vs LSG Match Preview: Head-to-Head, Predicted XI and Key Battles to Watch
Head-to-head record remains close
Mumbai Indians and Chennai Super Kings have one of the closest rivalries in IPL history.
Mumbai Indians hold a slight edge in overall wins, but the difference is small. Matches between these teams are usually closely contested and often go down to the wire.
Predicted Playing XI for MI vs CSK
Mumbai Indians
- Rohit Sharma
- Quinton de Kock
- Naman Dhir
- Tilak Varma
- Suryakumar Yadav
- Hardik Pandya
- Sherfane Rutherford
- Mitchell Santner
- Will Jacks
- Jasprit Bumrah
- Krish Bharat
Impact Player: Ashwani Kumar
Chennai Super Kings
- Sanju Samson
- Ruturaj Gaikwad
- Urvil Patel
- Sarfaraz Khan
- Shivam Dube
- Dewald Brevis
- Jamie Overton
- MS Dhoni (doubtful)
- Anshul Kamboj
- Noor Ahmad
- Spencer Johnson
Impact Player: Gurjapneet Singh
Key players to watch
For Mumbai Indians, Suryakumar Yadav can change the game quickly with his aggressive batting. Jasprit Bumrah will play a key role in the death overs, while Tilak Varma is in top form.
For Chennai Super Kings, Ruturaj Gaikwad needs to lead from the front. Ravindra Jadeja will be important as an all-rounder, and MS Dhoni can be a game-changer if he plays.
When and where to watch MI vs CSK
- Date: April 23, 2026
Time: 7:30 PM IST
Venue: Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai - Live Telecast: Star Sports Network
Live Streaming: JioCinema
Match outlook
Mumbai Indians enter the match with better momentum and the likely return of Rohit Sharma. Chennai Super Kings are dealing with injuries and uncertainty around MS Dhoni.
Even then, this rivalry is always unpredictable. If Dhoni plays and Rohit returns, fans can expect a high-quality contest.
This match could play a key role in deciding the future of both teams in IPL 2026.
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