CSK to take final call on Dhoni's fitness today

Dhoni had injured his right elbow after being hit by a Shane Bond delivery during their match against Kolkata Knight Riders at Eden Gardens and eventually was ruled out of three subsequent matches against Delhi Daredevils, Kings XI Punjab and Royal Challengers Bangalore.

Coach Stephen Fleming said the team was cautious but optimistic about Dhoni’s return against the high-flying MI and if it happens it would be a major psychological boost.
“It looks good. He is right back with the team and he’s also training. We will take a call on his fitness tomorrow. We have to see how his arm reacts. We are happy at this stage but we will be cautious,” Fleming said.

The former New Zealand captain explained that there were extraneous factors outside the IPL’s ambit that has to be considered before a call is taken on whether the India captain can play.

“We are looking at his full fitness and there are also responsibilities to the Indian cricket. There are a lot of interested parties. We will be cautious but we are optimistic,” he said.
Fleming admitted that the loss to Kings XI Punjab prior to Tuesday’s loss to Royal Challengers Bangalore has hurt the team badly. “That was a big game to lose for us. That did hurt. Then we faced a very good side, the Royal Challengers last night. It has been tough couple of days for us but we are still very positive. We have been in this position before in the two previous editions.

“I guess it is a psychological boost to have the skipper back, good for the team morale. It’s great to have him around. We understand there are ups and down. We are positive and we are looking forward to playing another good side,” he said.

“At the moment Bangalore and Mumbai are certainly the teams in form. It can change with injuries and form slump.”