Chennai Super Kings (CSK) confirmed on Saturday that MS Dhoni will miss the opening phase of IPL 2026 due to a calf strain.
The 44-year-old wicketkeeper-batter is expected to sit out the first four matches of the season.
What Did CSK Say?
CSK released an official statement on X (formerly Twitter) confirming the news.
“MS Dhoni is currently undergoing rehabilitation for a calf strain. As a result, he is likely to miss the first two weeks of TATA IPL 2026. Get well soon, Thala,” the franchise said.
The update came just two days before CSK’s first match of the season.
Which Matches Will Dhoni Miss?
Based on the two-week timeline, Dhoni is set to miss the following four matches:
- March 30: Rajasthan Royals vs CSK (Guwahati)
- April 3: CSK vs Punjab Kings
- April 5: Royal Challengers Bengaluru vs CSK
- April 11: CSK vs Delhi Capitals
Who Will Keep Wickets?
With Dhoni unavailable, Sanju Samson is expected to take over wicketkeeping duties. CSK brought Samson in through a trade with Rajasthan Royals. His experience as a wicketkeeper at both the IPL and international level makes him the most likely option.
Dhoni’s Recent Form and Fitness
Dhoni has had recurring injury concerns in recent seasons. He is also dealing with persistent knee issues alongside the current calf strain. At a fan event in Chennai recently, Dhoni himself acknowledged that his fitness is “on the way down.”
In IPL 2025, Dhoni played all 14 league matches for CSK. He scored 196 runs at a strike rate of 135.17. He also took over as captain midway through the season when Ruturaj Gaikwad was ruled out with a hairline fracture.
Overall in IPL, Dhoni has played 278 matches and scored 5,439 runs at an average of 38.30 and a strike rate of 137.45. He has 24 fifties and a highest score of 84 not out.
A Historic Return Awaits
If Dhoni returns and takes the field this season, he will become the oldest Indian player to feature in the IPL, surpassing Praveen Tambe. He is only the fourth player, alongside Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma and Manish Pandey, to have been part of all 19 IPL seasons.
CSK finished last in IPL 2025, their worst-ever finish. The team will now look to bounce back this season, starting without one of their most important players.
