MS Dhoni (Image credit: CSK/IPL)
New Delhi: Chennai Super Kings suffered a major setback as star wicket-keeper MS Dhoni was ruled out for two weeks due to a calf strain. CSK released a statement confirming the development.“MS Dhoni is currently undergoing rehabilitation due to a calf strain. As a result, he is likely to miss the first two weeks of TATA IPL 2026. Get well soon Thala!”, CSK said.
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CSK will start their IPL 2026 campaign against Rajasthan Royals in Guwahati.Speculation has been growing that IPL 2026 could be Dhoni’s last season following his injury news. In addition to the calf strain, Dhoni is also suffering from persistent knee problems.
Dhoni had admitted his deteriorating fitness during the ‘ROAR 26’ fan event in Chibok recently, saying “it is on the way down”.With Ruturaj Gaikwad leading the franchise for some time, CSK also strengthened their wicket-keeping options by bringing in Sanju Samson and investing Rs 14.20 crore in off-spinner Kartik Sharma.In 278 matches, Dhoni scored 5439 runs in 242 innings at an average of 38.30 and a strike rate of 137.45, including 24 fifties, with a highest score of 84*.
reconnaissance
Who do you think will take the lead for CSK in Dhoni’s absence?
He is the sixth best player in the history of the tournament.