MS Dhoni to Miss Initial Matches of IPL 2026 Due to Injury

Chennai Super Kings have confirmed that MS Dhoni will be sidelined for the first two weeks of IPL 2026 due to a calf strain. As the team prepares for their opening matches against Rajasthan Royals and others, new signing Sanju Samson is expected to step in as wicketkeeper. With Dhoni's absence, CSK faces significant challenges, especially after a disappointing last season. The team is also dealing with the loss of Nathan Ellis due to injury. This article explores the implications of these changes and the potential lineup for CSK in the early matches.

By Narendra Chaudhary Mar 28, 2026, 13:34 IST

Dhoni's Injury Update

Chennai Super Kings (CSK) announced on the tournament's opening day that MS Dhoni is expected to be unavailable for the first two weeks of IPL 2026 due to a calf strain. The franchise confirmed that he is currently undergoing rehabilitation for this injury.

CSK's Early Matches

CSK will kick off their season on Monday against the Rajasthan Royals, followed by matches against the Punjab Kings, Royal Challengers Bengaluru, and Delhi Capitals within the first two weeks. Dhoni's absence creates a notable void, especially in the wicketkeeping role.

Samson Set to Step In

In Dhoni's absence, new recruit Sanju Samson is anticipated to take over the wicketkeeping responsibilities. Samson, who was traded from the Rajasthan Royals, is expected to open the batting alongside captain Ruturaj Gaikwad. CSK also has options like Urvil Patel and rookie Kartik Sharma. Urvil was retained after a promising performance last season, while Kartik was acquired for INR 14.20 crore due to his impressive domestic cricket performances.

Last Season's Performance

Last season, Dhoni participated in all 14 matches, typically batting lower in the order and entering during the final overs. He accumulated 196 runs across 13 innings with a strike rate of 135.17, achieving a top score of 30 not out. Despite his contributions, CSK only secured four victories, finishing at the bottom of the table in 2025.

Additional Injury Issues for CSK

CSK is facing another challenge as Australian fast bowler Nathan Ellis has been ruled out for the entire tournament due to a hamstring injury. He will be replaced by fellow Australian Spencer Johnson, joining a pace attack that includes Matt Henry. Other key players in the bowling lineup are Khaleel Ahmed, Gurjapneet Singh, Zak Foulkes, Anshul Kamboj, Ramakrishna Ghosh, Jamie Overton, and Mukesh Choudhary, along with allrounder Shivam Dube.

Projected Best XI for CSK

The likely lineup for CSK in the opening weeks is as follows: Sanju Samson (wk), Ruturaj Gaikwad (capt), Ayush Mhatre/Urvil Patel/Sarfaraz Khan, Shivam Dube, Dewald Brevis, Kartik Sharma, Prashant Veer, Jamie Overton/Akeal Hosein, Matt Henry, Noor Ahmad*, Khaleel Ahmed, and Anshul Kamboj/Ramakrishna Ghosh. With Dhoni out, CSK will rely on their new signings and retained players to achieve better results and improve upon last year's performance.