MS Dhoni Injury Update IPL 2026:- MS Dhoni is set to miss the opening phase of IPL 2026, dealing a major blow to Chennai Super Kings. The franchise confirmed that Dhoni is recovering from a calf strain and is currently undergoing rehabilitation, making him “likely to miss the first two weeks” of the tournament.
This development comes right at the start of the season, raising concerns for CSK as they aim to bounce back after a disappointing 2025 campaign.
Injury Status and Recovery
According to the franchise, Dhoni is:
- Recovering from a calf strain
- Undergoing rehabilitation
- Expected to miss initial two weeks
His absence will be significant, especially considering his experience and finishing role in tight matches.
MS Dhoni IPL 2025 Performance
MS Dhoni IPL 2025 Stats
| Matches | Innings | Runs | Highest Score | Strike Rate |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 14 | 13 | 196 | 30* | 135.17 |
Dhoni featured in all 14 matches last season, primarily batting in the lower order and entering during the final overs.
Who Will Replace Dhoni as Wicketkeeper?
In Dhoni’s absence, Sanju Samson is the leading candidate to take over wicketkeeping duties.
Key Options:
- Sanju Samson (Primary choice)
- Urvil Patel (Retained player)
- Kartik Sharma (New signing)
Samson, who was traded from Rajasthan Royals, is also expected to open the innings alongside captain Ruturaj Gaikwad.
CSK Squad Changes Ahead of IPL 2026
CSK made several bold moves before the season:
- Sanju Samson traded from Rajasthan Royals
- Ravindra Jadeja and Sam Curran moved out
- Kartik Sharma signed for INR 14.20 crore
- Urvil Patel retained after a strike rate of 212.50 last season
These changes indicate a shift in strategy as the team rebuilds for IPL 2026.
CSK Fixtures
CSK First Two Weeks Fixtures
| Match No. | Opponent |
|---|---|
| 1 | Rajasthan Royals |
| 2 | Punjab Kings |
| 3 | Royal Challengers Bengaluru |
| 4 | Delhi Capitals |
Another Blow: Nathan Ellis Ruled Out
Nathan Ellis has been ruled out of IPL 2026 due to a hamstring injury.
- Replacement: Spencer Johnson
- Bowling attack led by: Matt Henry
Other pace options include Khaleel Ahmed, Gurjapneet Singh, Zak Foulkes, Anshul Kamboj, Ramakrishna Ghosh, Jamie Overton, and Mukesh Choudhary.
CSK Likely Playing XII
CSK Probable Playing XII
| No. | Player |
|---|---|
| 1 | Sanju Samson (wk) |
| 2 | Ruturaj Gaikwad (capt) |
| 3 | Ayush Mhatre / Urvil Patel / Sarfaraz Khan |
| 4 | Shivam Dube |
| 5 | Dewald Brevis |
| 6 | Kartik Sharma |
| 7 | Prashant Veer |
| 8 | Jamie Overton / Akeal Hosein |
| 9 | Matt Henry |
| 10 | Noor Ahmad |
| 11 | Khaleel Ahmed |
| 12 | Anshul Kamboj / Ramakrishna Ghosh |
CSK 2025 Season Recap
- Matches Won: 4
- Final Position: Bottom of the table
CSK will be desperate to improve their performance in IPL 2026 after finishing last in the previous season.
The absence of MS Dhoni in the opening weeks of IPL 2026 is a major setback for Chennai Super Kings. While players like Sanju Samson and Ruturaj Gaikwad will look to step up, Dhoni’s leadership and finishing ability will undoubtedly be missed.
CSK’s performance in the first two weeks could play a crucial role in shaping their campaign this season.
Image Credit CSK Official Social Media Platform
