MS Dhoni tests negative for COVID-19, cleared to join Chennai Super Kings training camp

Along with the initiation of much-awaited IPL 2020, fans are also eagerly awaiting the return of MS Dhoni to the field. The former India skipper hasn’t braced the field since India’s 2019 World Cup oust. Many speculations have been surfacing over his international future but Dhoni is all set to make his comeback while leading Chennai Super Kings in IPL 2020.

Amid the COVID-19 pandemic, the thirteenth edition of the IPL is set to begin from September 19th in the UAE. Ahead of the tournament, the BCCI has set protocols stating that a player has to undergo two COVID-19 tests before the franchises reach UAE. Anybody who tests positive will have to be quarantined for 14 days and will have to undergo two tests post that.

Testing negative in both tests is mandatory for a player to be allowed to leave for the UAE. Dhoni had also submitted his swab to a private hospital and the test has come out to be negative, clearing the way for the Ranchi stalwart to ply his trade in the IPL 2020.

IPL 2020 will be Dhoni’s first cricketing assignment after 2019 World Cup

Dhoni will first join CSK’s training camp before the team flies down to the Gulf country. Regarded as one of the most successful skippers in the IPL, Dhoni has led CSK to three IPL titles. Amid his truancy from the sport, Dhoni has been spending time with his family at his Ranchi farmhouse. Recently on July 7, Dhoni was also spotted celebrating his birthday with Hardik and Krunal Pandya at his farmhouse.

IPL 2020 will be Dhoni’s first cricketing assignment after 2019 World Cup. All eyes will be on the veteran to prove his worth in the cash-rich league. As per reports, Dhoni’s performance in this year’s IPL will be a key factor behind his international return.

Chennai Super Kings’ training camp will also feature the likes of Suresh Raina, Harbhajan Singh and Ambati Rayudu. All-rounder Jadeja will be the only prominent name to miss the camp. He will reach Chennai in time to join his teammates before they depart on August 21.

Bowling coach Lakshmipathy Balaji is likely to be the only member of the coaching staff present at the Chennai camp. Head coach Stephen Fleming and assistant coach Michael Hussey are likely to join the squad in Dubai on August 22.