IPL News Bulletin April 24: MS Dhoni Fitness Update, Virat Kohli Nears 9000 IPL Runs; Sanju Samson Hits Second Century Of The Season

IPL 2026 continues to deliver high-intensity action both on and off the field, with major updates surrounding MS Dhoni's recovery, Sanju Samson's batting masterclass, Virat Kohli's record chase, Mitchell Starc's return boost for Delhi Capitals, disciplinary action involving Nandre Burger, and tactical insights from Ravindra Jadeja after the Rajasthan Royals' win over Lucknow Super Giants.

Here are the latest developments from IPL in today's IPL News Bulletin, April 24.

MS Dhoni Fitness Update

Chennai Super Kings batting coach Michael Hussey confirmed that MS Dhoni will return as wicketkeeper once fully recovered from his calf strain, ruling out any role as a specialist batter under the Impact Player rule. Dhoni has missed seven IPL 2026 matches but is progressing well in the nets. CSK remain hopeful of his return in the coming games.

Samson Scores Second Century Of The Season

Sanju Samson scored an unbeaten 101 off 54 balls against the Mumbai Indians in IPL 2026, smashing 10 fours and 6 sixes in a dominant innings for the Chennai Super Kings. It was his second century of the season and fifth IPL hundred overall. With this feat, he became the ninth batter to register multiple centuries in a single IPL season, joining an elite group featuring Virat Kohli, Chris Gayle, and others.

RCB vs GT: Virat Kohli Eyes 9000 Runs

The IPL 2026 clash between Royal Challengers Bengaluru and Gujarat Titans could witness multiple milestones, with Virat Kohli just 11 runs away from becoming the first player to reach 9000 IPL runs. Several other records are also in sight, including Kohli's 300 sixes and RCB's team landmarks. GT players like Shubman Gill, Rashid Khan, and Jos Buttler are also closing in on major IPL career achievements.

Mitchell Starc Fitness Update

Delhi Capitals have received a major boost as Mitchell Starc has been cleared to travel to India after recovering from shoulder and elbow injuries. The Australian pacer has resumed pain-free bowling and is expected to join the squad soon, potentially returning against the Rajasthan Royals on May 1. His comeback strengthens DC's pace attack at a crucial stage of IPL 2026 as they push for a strong finish.

Nandre Burger Fined 10% Of Match Fees For Provocative Gestures

Rajasthan Royals pacer Nandre Burger has been fined 10% of his match fee and given one demerit point for breaching the IPL Code of Conduct during their 2026 match against Lucknow Super Giants. The Level 1 offence, under Article 2.5, involved a provocative gesture or exchange. Burger accepted the sanction. Despite the penalty, he played a key role in RR's 40-run win, with LSG bowled out for 119 chasing 160.

Ravindra Jadeja Shares RR's Batting Strategy For Tough Games

Rajasthan Royals beat Lucknow Super Giants by 40 runs in IPL 2026, handing LSG their fourth straight loss. Ravindra Jadeja explained RR's batting strategy on a tough red-soil pitch, highlighting calculated risks and adaptability in both batting and bowling. Expert Sanjay Bangar analysed Rishabh Pant's early struggles and MI's balance ahead of the MI-CSK clash, stressing clarity in shot selection and improved team combinations for success.