Chennai Super Kings (CSK) fans have been dealt a major setback ahead of the IPL 2026 season, with team star and former captain MS Dhoni ruled out for the first two weeks due to a leg muscle injury. The CSK management confirmed that Dhoni is undergoing treatment and is unlikely to feature in any matches during the opening 14 days of the tournament. The team expressed hopes for a speedy recovery through a tweet.
CSK will kick off their season against Rajasthan Royals in Guwahati without their veteran leader. Dhoni’s absence is considered a significant loss for the franchise, especially as speculation mounts that this could be his final IPL season. Fans are concerned, given that he has been dealing with ongoing knee issues.
Official Statement
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! 💛🦁 pic.twitter.com/4dgmt5EWFi
— Chennai Super Kings (@ChennaiIPL) March 28, 2026
At the recent ‘ROAR 26’ fan event at Chepauk Stadium, Dhoni acknowledged that his fitness has slightly declined with age but remains committed to the game. To address his absence, CSK has a strategic plan for wicket-keeping duties, having acquired star keeper Sanju Samson from Rajasthan Royals through a trade.
The team also invested ₹14.20 crore to secure young talent Kartik Sharma in the auction. Currently captained by Ruturaj Gaikwad, CSK will look to maintain their competitive edge. Over his IPL career, Dhoni has amassed 5,439 runs in 278 matches, including 24 half-centuries and a highest score of 84.