Mumbai remains on tenterhooks ahead of Thursday’s Indian Premier League encounter between Mumbai Indians (MI) and Chennai Super Kings (CSK), as the fitness of two pivotal players, Rohit Sharma and MS Dhoni, continues to be assessed.

The much-anticipated first leg of the IPL ‘El Clasico’ is set to take place in Mumbai, but uncertainty surrounds the availability of these key figures who carry significant weight in the storied rivalry between the two franchises.

Rohit Sharma, who has participated in MI’s opening four matches this season, withdrew from a recent contest against Royal Challengers Bangalore due to a hamstring injury sustained about 10 days ago. Since then, he has been progressing through his recovery, appearing at the nets during Wednesday’s practice session alongside CSK captain Dhoni. Rohit’s timing and ball placement during batting drills showed no obvious signs of discomfort, though the final decision regarding his inclusion is expected only at the toss on match day.

Meanwhile, Dhoni, who has yet to make an appearance this IPL season, has been sidelined with a calf strain incurred just before the tournament’s commencement late last month. His preparation has been cautious; on Tuesday, he participated fully in wicketkeeping drills followed by a batting workout. Wednesday’s net session was more fragmented, involving a brief stint before a pause and a subsequent hour-long batting practice facing throwdowns and pace bowling. Dhoni displayed a mix of successful connections and misses during this time.

CSK bowling coach Eric Simons noted that Dhoni’s participation will hinge on how the player and the medical team assess his readiness closer to the match. Adding a moment of levity to training, Dhoni was seen engaging briefly with an AI-powered IPL robotic dog, a scene that lightened the mood amidst the fitness concerns.

Earlier in the day, Rohit arrived at the venue accompanied by family members, proceeding to complete his batting routine under the floodlights. Both teams remain cautious but hopeful as they monitor the condition of these veteran leaders ahead of what promises to be a fiercely contested clash.