The return of legendary wicketkeeper-batsman MS Dhoni to IPL 2026 remains uncertain due to a calf injury. The 44-year-old is unlikely to feature in the upcoming home encounter against Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) at the MA Chidambaram Stadium on Tuesday, April 14, raising concerns for Chennai Super Kings (CSK).
Ruturaj Gaikwad-led Super Kings are second-last on the points table after securing just one win, while Ajinkya Rahane-led Knight Riders are still looking for their first win in IPL 2026. This upcoming match is important for both the teams to keep their playoff hopes alive in the tournament.
MS Dhoni likely to miss IPL 2026 vs Kolkata Knight Riders clash
According to ESPN Cricinfo, MS Dhoni had a short batting session in the nets on Monday ahead of CSK’s home match against Kolkata Knight Riders in Chepauk. He only faced throwdowns from the support staff, including Mike Hussey, and did not take part in wicketkeeping drills during the training sessions.
During practice, Dhoni played a few shots, including one on the midwicket boundary and another in the stands, before the session ended at 9 pm IST. However, he has not yet returned to full-intensity training and has not traveled with the team for away matches this season.
Dhoni has missed all four matches due to a calf strain and is likely to miss the fifth match as well. Despite a strike rate of 182 in 2023 and 221 in 2024, he struggled last season after facing 145 balls and managed a strike rate of 135.
MS Dhoni is still in the team – Stephen Fleming
The experienced wicketkeeper has missed the first four matches and is also not part of the traveling squad for overseas matches. In his absence, Sanju Samson has taken over the responsibility of wicketkeeping. Samson scored 115 runs on 56 balls during the recent match against Delhi Capitals (DC).
Chennai Super Kings head coach Stephen Fleming talked about the atmosphere in the team without its senior leader. He said that Dhoni is still actively involved in the dressing room and continues to have a deep influence on the players during the tournament.
Stephen Fleming said, “It’s just one game without him. He’s still involved in the team and his influence is very strong.”
CSK awaits Spencer Johnson’s return amid injury uncertainty
Chennai Super Kings is also waiting for Spencer Johnson to join the team in place of injured Nathan Ellis. The left-arm fast bowler is recovering from a back injury and is expected to join the team between April 21 and April 23.
CSK bowling coach Eric Simmons said the team values ​​Johnson’s pace and skill but is unsure how much he will contribute this season. He said that Johnson has strong qualities and remains an exciting addition to the team.
“I mean it’s important to have someone like him with his speed and great skills, [but] We’re not sure how much of a role he’ll play this year,” Simmons said after their win against Delhi Capitals on Saturday. ”But that’s OK, he’s a fantastic acquisition for us. For me, I haven’t worked with him specifically, but I’ve watched him and it’s very clear that he has some tremendous qualities.”
Also read: Win or learn: Hardik Pandya becomes Mohammad Rizwan while giving speech in the dressing room after the defeat to RCB
