MS Dhoni's IPL 2026 Participation in Doubt Amid Calf Injury

Uncertainty Surrounds MS Dhoni's Return to IPL 2026

The participation of former Chennai Super Kings (CSK) captain MS Dhoni in the current IPL season is in jeopardy as he has been sidelined for two weeks due to a calf strain. At 44 years old, Dhoni joined the CSK squad for IPL 2026 but has yet to step onto the field, leaving fans anxious about his comeback.

Due to his calf injury, Dhoni did not accompany the CSK team to Guwahati for their match against the Rajasthan Royals, opting to remain in Chennai for rehabilitation. Ahead of the game against the Punjab Kings in Chennai, he returned to training, suggesting a possible return, yet he did not play at the Chepauk Stadium.

Dhoni was also absent during CSK's recent match against the Royal Challengers Bengaluru at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium, further fueling speculation about his availability for future games.

No Set Timeline for Dhoni's Comeback

As the Chennai Super Kings prepare to face the Delhi Capitals at the Chepauk Stadium, uncertainty looms over Dhoni's participation. The five-time IPL champion has been out of action since CSK's opening match on March 30, leaving many wondering when he might return.

CSK's CEO addressed the situation regarding Dhoni's involvement in the upcoming match against the Delhi Capitals. In a statement to a sports news outlet, Kasi Viswanath mentioned that the wicketkeeper-batter is currently in rehabilitation, and there is no definitive timeline for his return.

"MS is undergoing rehab, and it will take some time. We can't say how much time," the CSK CEO remarked.

Ongoing Health Challenges for Dhoni

In recent seasons, Dhoni has faced persistent knee issues. Last IPL season, he managed his condition by wearing a knee brace while keeping wickets, which also led him to bat lower in the order to protect his body.

The absence of MS Dhoni has been keenly felt in CSK's first three matches, as the team has yet to secure a victory under the leadership of Ruturaj Gaikwad. In their opening match against the Rajasthan Royals, CSK lost by eight wickets, followed by a five-wicket defeat to the Punjab Kings, where they failed to defend a total of 209 runs in Chennai.

In their latest match against the Royal Challengers Bengaluru, CSK struggled to chase down a target of 25 runs, ultimately losing by 43 runs. With three consecutive losses, the team currently sits at the bottom of the points table.

The Need for Dhoni's Leadership

The Chennai Super Kings' poor start to IPL 2026 has heightened the urgency for Dhoni's return, as his leadership and experience are crucial for the team, especially in high-pressure situations.

The upcoming match against the Delhi Capitals is vital for CSK as they aim to break their losing streak and regain their momentum in the tournament.