NEW DELHI: Chennai Super Kings have suffered a major setback as their star wicketkeeper-batter MS Dhoni has been ruled out for two weeks due to a calf strain. CSK released a statement confirming the development.“MS Dhoni is currently undergoing rehabilitation for 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.
CSK will kick off their IPL 2026 campaign against Rajasthan Royals in Guwahati.Speculation that IPL 2026 could be Dhoni’s last season has gathered pace following news of his injury. In addition to the calf strain, Dhoni has also been dealing with persistent knee issues.Dhoni had acknowledged his declining fitness during the ‘ROAR 26’ fan event at Chepauk recently, saying that “it is on the way down”.With Ruturaj Gaikwad leading the franchise for some time, CSK have also strengthened their wicketkeeping options by bringing in Sanju Samson and investing Rs 14.20 crore in uncapped wicketkeeper-batter Kartik Sharma.In 278 matches, Dhoni has scored 5,439 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*.He is the sixth-highest run-getter in the tournament’s history.
