Will MS Dhoni play tonight in RCB vs CSK clash of IPL 2026?

MS Dhoni did not play CSK’s IPL 2026 first two matches.

Chennai Super Kings (CSK), the five-time champions, will be desperate for a win after starting off their Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 season with back-to-back one-sided defeats. They first met with a thrashing at the hands of Rajasthan Royals (RR).

Later their home return proved to be a challenging one, as Punjab Kings (PBKS) chased down a 200+ total without much trouble. The form of CSK‘s openers in Sanju Samson and skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad continue to be a cause of concern. However, their biggest weakness was exposed in the last match.

The bowling department lacks any threat or consistency, and winning games without wicket-takers will be tough in a competitive tournament like IPL. Proven International performers like Matt Henry and Noor Ahmed were expensive and below their best, and CSK would hope they can find their form ahead of the Southern Derby.

After a week-long break, defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) will be back in action against their arch rivals. Unlike CSK, RCB are in excellent form, with in-form match winners throughout their lineup.

Will MS Dhoni play in CSK vs PBKS match of IPL 2026

CSK’s former captain and IPL legend MS Dhoni missed the first two matches against RR and PBKS. Dhoni had suffered a calf strain during a pre-season practice session at the M.A. Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai.

Reports suggest that he will miss at least the first six matches of the competition. Dhoni, the batter, has capable replacements in this CSK squad, with the likes of Sarfraz Khan stepping up in his absence. What CSK are missing though, is Dhoni’s presence on the field, and his tactical brain which knows how to get the best out of every player.

The Indian icon is now 44 years old, and plays just two months of professional cricket every year. While he has been ruled out of this contest, he has been present with the squad members during training, trying to instill confidence and motivate the group of players. In his absence, Sanju Samson will once again don the wicket-keeping gloves.

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