Why is MS Dhoni not playing tonight's LSG vs CSK clash of IPL 2026?

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MS Dhoni is yet to play a single game in IPL 2026 for CSK.
MS Dhoni has not played any game for CSK in IPL 2026 so far.
Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) and Chennai Super Kings (CSK) are up against each other in match 59th of Indian Premier League 2026. The match between two teams is taking place a the Ekana Stadium in Lucknow.
The clash holds a great value for CSK, who take the fifth pot in the points table with 12 points, as a win here can take them into top four and make their case strong for playoffs. On the other hand, LSG are stranded in last place with 6 points. They have been eliminated from the tournament, and would want to spoil the party for CSK and take revenge of the last game.
CSK have been put into bat first, and yet again MS Dhoni’s name was missing from the XI. He has not featured in any games in the tournament so far.
Why did MS Dhoni miss LSG vs CSK clash of IPL 2026?

MS Dhoni, reportedly, has recovered from his calf injury but is still working on his fitness. He had suffered a calf injury before the start of the season. Since then, the franchise has not given a proper update on the exact reason for his absence.
The wicket-keeper batsman is participating in practice sessions. Earlier, it was said that he is working on running between the wickets. Some reports also suggested that Dhoni had cleared fitness tests, but he and the team decided not to disturb the winning combination.
While he has been training regularly with the squad, there is still no clarity about his return to the playing XI. Thankfully, his absence hasn’t cost CSK much as they are having a decent time in the league and would want to carry on the winning momentum.
LSG vs CSK: Playing XI’s
Chennai Super Kings (Playing XI): Sanju Samson(w), Ruturaj Gaikwad(c), Urvil Patel, Kartik Sharma, Dewald Brevis, Shivam Dube, Prashant Veer, Anshul Kamboj, Noor Ahmad, Spencer Johnson, Mukesh Choudhary
Lucknow Super Giants (Playing XI): Mitchell Marsh, Nicholas Pooran, Aiden Markram, Rishabh Pant(w/c), Mukul Choudhary, Abdul Samad, Shahbaz Ahmed, Mohammed Shami, Mayank Yadav, Akash Maharaj Singh, Prince Yadav
Why is MS Dhoni not playing LSG vs CSK clash of IPL 2026?
Dhoni has missed all games for CSK this season due to calf injury.
Who is leading CSK in IPL 2026?
Ruturaj Gaikwad is leading CSK in IPL 2026.
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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.