New Delhi | 28 March 2026

The 19th season of the Indian Premier League (IPL) is set to begin on Saturday, but MS Dhoni will miss the initial phase of the tournament due to injury. The Chennai Super Kings (CSK) confirmed that the veteran wicketkeeper-batter has suffered a calf strain and is expected to be sidelined for the first two weeks of IPL 2026. His absence comes as a setback for the franchise ahead of their opening fixtures.

CSK are scheduled to begin their campaign on Monday against Rajasthan Royals. However, Dhoni’s unavailability means the team will have to adjust its plans early in the season. In an official statement, the franchise said Dhoni is currently undergoing rehabilitation and is being closely monitored, with hopes of his return later in the tournament.

Despite the injury, Dhoni was seen in good touch during a recent practice session at the MA Chidambaram Stadium, where he played several aggressive shots during a simulated match. With the experienced player out, Sanju Samson is likely to take over wicketkeeping duties for CSK in the opening matches. The team, led by Ruturaj Gaikwad, will be aiming to maintain a strong start in pursuit of a record sixth IPL title.

CSK, one of the most successful teams in IPL history, will now look to rely on its depth and experience to overcome this early challenge. Fans will be eagerly waiting for Dhoni’s return, as his leadership and presence remain a key factor in the team’s performance and morale during the high-intensity tournament.

Major Setback for Chennai Super Kings as Dhoni likely to miss Opening Weeks of IPL 2026

The 19th season of the Indian Premier League (IPL) is set to begin on Saturday, but MS Dhoni will miss the initial phase of the tournament due to injury. The Chennai Super Kings (CSK) confirmed that the veteran wicketkeeper-batter has suffered a calf strain and is expected to be sidelined for the first two weeks of IPL 2026. His absence comes as a setback for the franchise ahead of their opening fixtures.

CSK are scheduled to begin their campaign on Monday against Rajasthan Royals. However, Dhoni’s unavailability means the team will have to adjust its plans early in the season. In an official statement, the franchise said Dhoni is currently undergoing rehabilitation and is being closely monitored, with hopes of his return later in the tournament.

Despite the injury, Dhoni was seen in good touch during a recent practice session at the MA Chidambaram Stadium, where he played several aggressive shots during a simulated match. With the experienced player out, Sanju Samson is likely to take over wicketkeeping duties for CSK in the opening matches. The team, led by Ruturaj Gaikwad, will be aiming to maintain a strong start in pursuit of a record sixth IPL title.

CSK, one of the most successful teams in IPL history, will now look to rely on its depth and experience to overcome this early challenge. Fans will be eagerly waiting for Dhoni’s return, as his leadership and presence remain a key factor in the team’s performance and morale during the high-intensity tournament.