MS Dhoni (BCCI/IPL Photo)
New Delhi: MS Dhoni remains the missing piece as Chennai Super Kings (CSK) take on Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in the much-awaited IPL 2026 match in Bengaluru. The high-voltage southern derby at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium is set to attract attention, but CSK are coping without their iconic captain once again.While RCB entered the competition full of confidence after their solid win in the opening match, CSK are under pressure after back-to-back defeats against Rajasthan Royals and Punjab Kings.
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Stephen Fleming on CSK’s revamp, bowling pressure and influential player base
On Sunday, CSK skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad gave an update on Dhoni’s return after winning the toss and his decision to bowl first. “MS (Dhoni) is slowly coming back. Sometimes it takes time. If he is ready to play, it will be soon,” he said.Naturally, Dhoni’s absence raises questions about whether the team misses his presence on the field.CSK had earlier confirmed that Dhoni would be sidelined due to a calf strain and was undergoing rehabilitation. “MS Dhoni is currently undergoing rehabilitation due to a calf strain. As a result, he is likely to miss the first two weeks of IPL 2026. Get well soon, Thala,” the franchise statement said.Despite not playing, coach Stephen Fleming has confirmed that Dhoni continues to be deeply involved with the team.
“It’s just a game without him. He’s still very involved in the team and his influence remains very strong,” Fleming said before facing Punjab Kings.
When can MS Dhoni return to CSK?
If the recovery progresses as expected, Dhoni could return when CSK take on Kolkata Knight Riders on April 14 in Chennai. If this schedule is extended, the next possible rematch is against Sunrise Hyderabad on April 18.CSK will also hope to have their talisman back in time for the high-stakes clash against Mumbai Indians on April 23, where his experience and leadership could prove crucial.
RCB vs CSK playing XIs
Chennai Super Kings (Playing XI): Sanju Samson (W), Ruturaj Gaikwad (C), Aayush Mhatre, Sarfaraz Khan, Shivam Dubey, Prashant Vir, Jimmy Overton, Noor Ahmed, Anshul Kamboj, Matt Henry, Khaleel Ahmed.Royal Challengers Bengaluru (Playing XI): Philip Salt, Virat Kohli, Devdutt Padikkal, Rajat Patidar (C), Jitesh Sharma (W), Tim David, Romario Shepherd, Krunal Pandya, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Abhinandan Singh, Jacob Duffy.