Will Mukesh Choudhary Play MI vs CSK? Pacer Returns to Squad After Personal Loss

Chennai Super Kings pacer Mukesh Choudhary has rejoined the squad after attending his mother's last rites, bringing an emotional close to a difficult personal period that forced him to temporarily leave the team camp during IPL 2026. The left-arm fast bowler returned to the franchise setup on Wednesday night after travelling to his hometown in Rajasthan following the passing of his mother, Prem Devi.

Choudhary's return comes just ahead of Chennai Super Kings' high-profile clash against Mumbai Indians, although his availability for the match remains uncertain.

Where Was Mukesh Choudhary? CSK Pacer Leaves Camp After Mother's Passing

Choudhary's mother passed away on April 21 after battling illness for nearly a year. She had been undergoing treatment at Tata Memorial Hospital in Mumbai before her condition worsened.

Following the news, Choudhary left the team environment to travel to Bhilwara in Rajasthan, where the final rites were conducted. Reports indicate he departed shortly after Chennai Super Kings' previous fixture against Sunrisers Hyderabad, prioritizing family responsibilities during a challenging moment.

The emotional circumstances meant he did not travel with the rest of the squad initially, delaying his return to competitive duties.

Mukesh Choudhary impressed in CSK's previous IPL 2026 outing

Before leaving the squad, Choudhary had delivered a notable performance in Chennai's previous match against Sunrisers Hyderabad. Despite the team suffering a narrow 10-run defeat, the left-arm pacer stood out with key breakthroughs, dismissing aggressive batters Travis Head and Ishan Kishan off consecutive deliveries.

That match marked his only appearance in IPL 2026 so far, but it highlighted his value as a new-ball option, particularly at a time when Chennai's bowling resources have been stretched by injuries.

With Khaleel Ahmed ruled out of the tournament, Choudhary's role within the pace unit has grown more significant, making his return a timely boost for team management.

Will Mukesh Choudhary play MI vs CSK IPL 2026 match?

While Choudhary has rejoined the squad, it remains unclear whether he will feature in the upcoming match against Mumbai Indians at Wankhede Stadium. The franchise is likely to assess his physical readiness and emotional condition before making a selection decision.

The clash between Chennai Super Kings and Mumbai Indians remains one of the most anticipated fixtures of the IPL calendar, often referred to as the league's El Clasico due to its historic rivalry and championship pedigree.

Regardless of immediate selection decisions, Choudhary's return to the squad represents an important step forward after a deeply personal loss-both for the player and for a team navigating a demanding season filled with on-field challenges.

MS Dhoni reportedly supported Choudhary

Senior figures within the Chennai Super Kings setup, including former captain MS Dhoni, are believed to have played a supportive role during Choudhary's personal crisis. Reports suggest Dhoni remained in contact with the pacer throughout the period and had previously visited his mother during her treatment.

Such support systems within franchise environments often play a vital role in helping players cope with emotional challenges during long tournaments. For younger players, guidance from experienced leaders can be especially meaningful during difficult phases away from the field.