The great MS Dhoni is likely to miss more matches for Chennai Super Kings (CSK) during the Indian Premier League 2026 season. According to an official statement from the franchise, Dhoni suffered a severe calf strain during a recent training camp, delaying his availability for the tournament.
The wicketkeeper-batsman did not travel to Guwahati for the opening match against Rajasthan Royals (RR) on Monday, March 30. Mahendra Singh Dhoni is currently undergoing intensive rehabilitation in Chennai, which will keep him out of the Chennai Super Kings squad for the next few crucial weeks.
MS Dhoni likely to miss up to six matches for Chennai Super Kings in IPL 2026
The official press release of Chennai Super Kings mentioned a two-week medical layoff. According to a recent report by Times of India, the recovery period may be a little longer. MS Dhoni is unlikely to return before the last week of April and may miss the crucial match against Mumbai Indians on April 23.
“This is definitely a big blow for us and we have to deal with it,” a senior CSK official said.
“Dhoni has not gone to Guwahati for the team’s first match against Rajasthan Royals on Sunday and is undergoing his rehabilitation in Chennai. He is taking rest and we want to get him back as soon as possible,” the source said.
CSK has many wicketkeeping options amid MS Dhoni’s injury
Despite MS Dhoni’s injury, Chennai Super Kings have many wicketkeeping options. Sanju Samson, who joined the team via marquee trade during the off-season, will handle the primary wicketkeeping duties.
The Super Kings also have backup options for this role. They signed Karthik Sharma for ₹14.20 crore during the mega auction. Additionally, Urvil Patel can provide emergency wicketkeeping cover if needed.
CSK CEO Kasi Vishwanathan had hinted that MS Dhoni could use the Impact Player rule during IPL 2026. The legendary cricketer batted lower in the order last season.
In Dhoni’s absence, CSK trusts Ruturaj Gaikwad and Sanju Samson
With MS Dhoni not on the field, Chennai Super Kings captain Ruturaj Gaikwad and Sanju Samson will take important strategic decisions. He will work in close consultation with head coach Stephen Fleming.
The team had a disappointing season in IPL 2025 and finished at the bottom of the table. The five-time Indian Premier League champions will be hoping for better results this season.
Mahendra Singh Dhoni’s absence forces CSK to look for reliable lower-order batsmen. The management hopes that players like Prashant Veer will take responsibility and provide strong finishes in the final overs.
CSK supporters can look forward to Dhoni’s possible return to Chepauk at the end of the season, but the next few matches will reveal how the team plans to shape its future without him. Dhoni rarely misses matches due to fitness related problems. He has played 278 IPL matches, which is the highest in this marquee tournament.
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