Why did MS Dhoni miss CSK vs GT clash of IPL 2026?

(Courtesy : CSK)
MS Dhoni has not played any game for CSK in IPL 2026 so far.
Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and Gujarat Titans (GT) are clashing in the Indian Premier League 2026 on Sunday, April 26. The Super Kings have the home advantage in the clash, which is taking place at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai.
After a dismal start with three consecutive defeats, CSK have performed better in recent matches. They have won three games and lost four out of seven so far. With six points, they grab the fifth spot in the points table.
On the other hand, the Gujarat Titans have suffered a roller-coaster ride in IPL 2026. Out of seven games, they have won three and lost four. They grab the seventh spot in the points table with six points.
In the 37th match of IPL 2026, GT captain Shubman Gill won the toss and opted to field first. They made one change to their playing XI. Notably, MS Dhoni was not part of CSK’s playing XI once again. He has not played any games in IPL 2026 so far.
Why did MS Dhoni miss the CSK vs GT clash?

According to reports from Express Sports, MS Dhoni has regained full fitness but is reluctant to take the place of a youngster and disturb the winning combination.
Ahead of IPL 2026, the wicket-keeper batsman suffered a calf injury and was ruled out of the initial games. At the start, the CSK management informed that Dhoni would miss two weeks of action due to injury.
He recovered from his calf injury recently and also took part in training sessions. However, Dhoni is yet to take the field in the CSK jersey in IPL 2026.
Speaking at the toss, Gaikwad said, “But as I said, as long as I’m getting starts and as long as someone else is doing the job and we are getting over the line, it’s fine. But whenever I feel, I’m there, I’m set, and I feel that today’s my day, and I’ll have to make sure I’ll make it count, and I’m confident with that. We just got one change, Urvil comes in, and we’ll play around with the impact player.”
Why is MS Dhoni not part of the CSK vs GT match?
MS Dhoni has regained full fitness but is reluctant to play in the match as it will disturb the winning combination.
What injury did MS Dhoni suffer ahead of IPL 2026?
Dhoni suffered a knee injury ahead of IPL 2026.
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Vikas Singh Derek is a core cricket-lover since childhood and has always followed the sport both in his personal and professional life. He started his school life by watching cricket at home with family. Later, he played cricket on the field at local clubs during college. After his Master's in Journalism from Mumbai, he followed his passion by covering cricket news across various digital media. Since 2015, he has been an aspiring sports journalist and cricket content writer with over 50K+ articles.