Rohit doubtful for Wankhede tie; Dhoni keeps CSK guessing

MS Dhoni and Rohit Sharma, the supposed protagonists of Wednesday night's Wankhede blockbuster between Mumbai Indians and Chennai Super Kings, may be doubtful starters. Cricbuzz understands that neither is fully fit to take the field, although there remains a remote possibility of one of them featuring as an Impact Player — even that, however, appears a long shot. But knowing Dhoni, nothing is impossible.

Both Dhoni and Rohit trained on Tuesday night, on the eve of the game, but it is understood that neither looked fully convinced about their fitness. It is likely that their respective franchises will avoid taking risks by fielding them, especially with more than half the season, potentially, still to play.

It is now well known that Rohit suffered a hamstring injury during Mumbai Indians' home match against Royal Challengers Bengaluru on April 12 and has not fully recovered since. This website has consistently reported that the franchise intends to err on the side of caution with his injury, and that approach remains unchanged.

At some stage, the decision may be left to Rohit himself, but as of Wednesday, he still appears to be struggling with his fitness. He batted on Tuesday evening — something he has been doing regularly of late — but is believed to be some distance away from match fitness.

Dhoni did not look fully recovered from a calf strain at the Wankhede nets. The CSK management has left the decision entirely to him, and he is expected to inform the franchise when he is ready to return. As of Wednesday afternoon, he has not indicated his readiness. But one would never know if he shows up at the last minute, just like he decided to travel to Hyderabad in the eleventh hour.

"We have told him to inform us when he is ready. As of today, he has not told us anything. We are waiting to hear from him," said Kasi Viswanathan, the CEO of the franchise. "We still don't know whether he will come to the ground. It is entirely up to him."

It is a crucial match for Mumbai and Chennai. Both, five-time champions, have two wins each from six games.