MS Dhoni Ruled Out for Opening IPL 2026 Matches Due to Calf Injury

New Delhi, March 2026 : In a significant setback for Chennai Super Kings, former India captain MS Dhoni has been ruled out of the initial phase of the Indian Premier League 2026 season after suffering a calf strain. The franchise confirmed that the veteran wicketkeeper-batter will miss at least the first two weeks of the tournament as he undergoes rehabilitation.

The 19th edition of the IPL is set to kick off on Saturday, with defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru taking on Sunrisers Hyderabad in the opening match at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium. CSK, one of the most successful franchises in IPL history, will begin their campaign on Monday against Rajasthan Royals.

However, Dhoni’s absence in the early matches comes as a major blow for the Chennai-based side. The 44-year-old, who has led CSK to five IPL titles—joint-most in the league—remains a central figure in the team’s leadership and strategy. His experience behind the stumps and calm presence in pressure situations have long been considered invaluable assets.

In an official statement, CSK said that Dhoni is currently undergoing treatment and recovery for the injury. “MS Dhoni is currently undergoing rehabilitation for a calf strain. As a result, he is likely to miss the first two weeks of IPL 2026,” the franchise stated.

Interestingly, earlier in the day, CSK had shared visuals from a practice simulation at the MA Chidambaram Stadium, where Dhoni appeared in good touch with the bat. He was seen striking the ball cleanly and clearing the boundary multiple times, indicating that his batting form remains intact despite the injury setback.

With Dhoni sidelined, Sanju Samson is expected to take over wicketkeeping duties for the initial matches. Samson, who previously captained Rajasthan Royals, was traded to CSK in a high-profile move ahead of the season. The transfer involved CSK parting ways with key all-rounders Ravindra Jadeja and Sam Curran.

While Curran has already been ruled out of the tournament due to injury, the reshuffled squad dynamics add an intriguing layer to CSK’s campaign. The spotlight will also be on the leadership of Ruturaj Gaikwad, who is set to guide the team in Dhoni’s absence.

Adding further excitement, CSK’s opening clash against Rajasthan Royals at the Barsapara Stadium in Guwahati is expected to carry emotional undertones, with Samson and Jadeja potentially facing their former teams.

As CSK chase a record sixth IPL title, much will depend on how they adapt in the early phase without their iconic leader. Fans will be hoping for Dhoni’s swift recovery and return, as his presence continues to define the spirit and identity of the franchise.