R Ashwin provides huge update on MS Dhoni’s availability for CSK vs MI clash

Ravichandran Ashwin shared a massive update on MS Dhoni's availability for the high-voltage clash between the Chennai Super Kings and Mumbai Indians at the MA Chidambaram Stadium on Saturday, May 2.

Dhoni, the heartthrob of cricket enthusiasts, has been recuperating from a calf injury and has not played a game so far in the 2026 edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL). Ahead of the IPL's El Clásico, Chennai's batting coach Michael Hussey mentioned that the wicketkeeper-batter is pretty close to making his much-awaited return to the cricket field.

Ahead of Saturday's highly-anticipated clash, fans have been wondering whether they will see the former India captain in action. Meanwhile, Rohit Sharma is also recovering from a hamstring injury and might return for the game against Chennai.

However, Ashwin opined that Dhoni is all but out of Saturday's clash. The former India spinner also mentioned that Rohit could continue being on the sidelines for the fifth consecutive game. However, Ashwin believes that the out-of-form Suryakumar Yadav will have a great opportunity to get back among the runs as the MA Chidambaram Stadium is expected to provide a belter of a surface.

“I don’t know about Rohit Sharma, but Dhoni won’t play 100 percent, I don’t think so. He can surprise as well because he’s that kind of guy, but I don’t think Dhoni will play," Ashwin said on his YouTube channel.

“I think Rohit will also not play, but it is a good chance for Suryakumar Yadav to come back in form because he’ll not get a better wicket for batting," he added.

Chennai should lock Sarfaraz Khan to No. 3: Ashwin

Ashwin suggested that the Men in Yellow should continue giving Sarfaraz Khan opportunities at No. 3 after Ayush Mhatre has been ruled out of the tournament due to an injury. The 39-year-old also mentioned that Chennai would start as slight favourites against Mumbai as a win for them would keep them in contention for a spot in the playoffs.

“I am saying just one thing, Chennai should lock Sarfaraz Khan to No. 3. Don’t keep him in impact because he has been your best batter this season apart from Sanju Samson. So, fix him at No. 3. If you lose wickets early, then use Akeal Hosein or any other lower-order batters who can bat," Ashwin said.

"Don’t waste your middle-order batters. Mumbai has a very good opportunity to try one or two youngsters. They have an opportunity to try one or two new guys and Chennai to continue their combination. If Chennai wins, then there is a possibility to make it tight. My edge is Chennai: Mumbai at 52-48," he added.