Rohan Umak
IPL 2026 Dhoni: Chennai Super Kings (CSK) have suffered a major setback on the opening day of the Indian Premier League’s (IPL) 2026 edition on Saturday, as captain MS Dhoni is set to miss the first two weeks of the tournament. As per officials, a calf strain has restrained him from featuring in the first two weeks. The franchise made the confirmation on Saturday, saying, “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.” The announcement was posted on social media.
IPL 2026 Dhoni: CSK set to face RR in their first match
In their first match of the tournament, CSK will lock horns with Rajasthan Royals (RR) on Monday, with Dhoni missing from the CSK squad. Meanwhile, Sanju Samson is likely to take over the wicketkeeping duties for the initial fixtures.
Samson, who has previously served as the captain for Rajasthan Royals, recently joined CSK in a high-profile trade. He is expected to play a crucial role for five-time champions CSK. CSK will face RR at the Barsapara stadium in Guwahati, and Ruturaj Gaikwad will captain the men in yellow jerseys.
Injuries, transitions mark new era for CSK
CSK’s squad overhaul ahead of IPL 2026 has drawn eyeballs. The franchise traded out key all-rounders such as Ravindra Jadeja and Sam Curran. However, Curran has also bowed out of the tournament due to injury. The team has roped in young wicketkeeper Kartik Sharma, and its moves suggest the franchise is preparing for a future beyond Dhoni.
Is IPL 2026 Dhoni’s final season?
Speculation continues to mount over the fact that IPL 2026 could mark the swansong for Dhoni. The veteran cricketer has openly acknowledged his deteriorating fitness, particularly the ongoing knee concerns, which have limited his role to the lower middle order in recent seasons.
Despite these challenges, Dhoni remains a vital icon for CSK. In 278 IPL matches, he has garnered 5,439 runs at an impressive average of 38.30 and a strike rate exceeding 137, including 24 half-centuries.
