BIG BLOW for CSK! MS Dhoni RULED OUT of first two weeks of IPL 2026 due to...
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MS Dhoni is the joint-most successful captain in the IPL.
The stage is set for the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 as the biggest league in the world is just a few hours away from now. The opening encounter will be played on Saturday, March 28, between Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) and Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) at M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru.
Coming to Chennai Super Kings (CSK), the Ruturaj Gaikwad-led side will open their campaign against Rajasthan Royals (RR) on Monday, March 30. After a poor season last year, they would be hoping for a strong comeback this year.
CSK look strong on paper as they roped in some exciting players ahead of IPL 2026. One of the biggest deals that they pulled was trading Sanju Samson from RR in place of Ravindra Jadeja and Sam Curran.
CSK will also have the guiding hand of MS Dhoni, who is expected to play his last season in the league. The keeper-batter even captained the team last year when Ruturaj Gaikwad was ruled out of the tournament due to injury.
MS Dhoni ruled out of the first two weeks of IPL 2026 due to calf strain
However, in a massive blow, MS Dhoni won’t be available for CSK from the start. The keeper-batter has been ruled out of the first two weeks of tournament due to a calf strain, which he likely sustained during the practice session.
CSK release an official statement and stated:
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!
In place of Dhoni, Sanju Samson is expected to don the gloves and Sarfaraz Khan is likely to replace him in the XI. The Mumbai batter looked in good touch in the nets and would be keen to capitalise on the opportunity and help his team win.
Will MS Dhoni will first game for CSK in IPL 2026?
Dhoni has been ruled out of the first two weeks of IPL.
Who will captain CSK in IPL 2026?
Ruturaj Gaikwad will captain CSK in 2026 IPL.
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Ankitjit Singh is a dedicated sports journalist whose childhood dream was to play cricket—now, he serves the game through his work. With over three years of experience in reporting, writing, and editing, he brings deep insight to his coverage. A journalism graduate from Delhi University, Ankitjit’s passion for cricket took root during his college days and continues to drive his career.