Injury-Hit CSK Sign Akash Madhwal; Dhoni Still Unavailable as MI Elect to Field at Wankhede

Chennai Super Kings have suffered multiple setbacks in the ongoing Indian Premier League 2026 season, with injuries disrupting their squad composition.

The franchise has signed Akash Madhwal as a replacement for Ayush Mhatre, who has been ruled out of the remainder of the tournament due to a left hamstring injury.

Mhatre, India’s U19 World Cup-winning captain, had made a strong start to the season, scoring two fifties in six matches.

Madhwal, a right-arm fast bowler, joins the Chennai-based side for a fee of INR 30 lakh.

He has previously represented Mumbai Indians in 2023 and 2024, and Rajasthan Royals in 2025. In his IPL career so far, he has played 17 matches and taken 23 wickets, including a five-wicket haul.

His standout performance came during his debut season when he recorded figures of 5/5 in the Eliminator against Lucknow Super Giants.

In another blow, CSK’s frontline pacer Khaleel Ahmed has also been ruled out of the ongoing season due to a right quadricep injury. The franchise is yet to name a replacement for the 28-year-old.

What Did Mumbai Indians Decide After Winning the Toss Against CSK?

Meanwhile, on Thursday, Mumbai Indians won the toss, with skipper Hardik Pandya opting to bowl first. The side retained the same playing XI from their previous win against Gujarat Titans.

Chennai Super Kings captain Ruturaj Gaikwad said he would have chosen to bat as well and confirmed one change in the lineup, with Prashant Veer replacing Matthew Short.

Speculation surrounding MS Dhoni’s return from injury was also put to rest, as the veteran wicketkeeper-batter remained unavailable for the five-time champions.