Legendary 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-batter did not travel to Guwahati for the opening match against Rajasthan Royals (RR), scheduled for 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 Chennai Super Kings press release mentions a two-week medical layoff. According to a recent Times of India report, the recovery period could be slightly longer. MS Dhoni is unlikely to return before the final week of April and might miss the crucial clash against Mumbai Indians scheduled for April 23.
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“It is definitely a big blow for us and we’ll have to deal with it,” a senior CSK official said.
“Dhoni hasn’t travelled to Guwahati for the team’s first match against Rajasthan Royals on Sunday and is doing his rehabilitation in Chennai. “He is taking rest and we want him back as soon as possible,” the source said.
CSK Have Multiple Wicketkeeping Options Amid MS Dhoni Injury
Despite MS Dhoni’s injury, Chennai Super Kings have multiple wicketkeeping options. Sanju Samson, who joined the team through a marquee trade during the off-season, will take over the primary wicketkeeping duties.
The Super Kings also have backup options for the role. They signed Kartik Sharma for ₹14.20 crore during the mega auction. Additionally, Urvil Patel can provide emergency wicketkeeping cover when needed.
CSK chief executive officer Kashi Viswanathan had indicated that MS Dhoni could use the Impact Player rule during IPL 2026. The legendary cricketer batted lower down the order throughout last season.
CSK Rely on Ruturaj Gaikwad and Sanju Samson in Dhoni’s Absence
With MS Dhoni not on the field, Chennai Super Kings captain Ruturaj Gaikwad and Sanju Samson will make the key tactical decisions. They will work in close consultation with head coach Stephen Fleming.
The team had a disappointing season in IPL 2025, finishing at the bottom of the table. The five-time Indian Premier League champions will hope for better results this season.
The absence of Mahendra Singh Dhoni forces CSK to look for reliable lower-order batters. The management expects players like Prashant Veer to take responsibility and provide strong finishes in the final overs.
CSK supporters may look forward to Dhoni’s possible return at Chepauk later in 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 issues. He has played 278 IPL matches, the most in the marquee tournament.
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