Published on: Apr 8, 2026 5:26 pm IST|Updated on: Apr 8, 2026 5:26 pm IST
Chennai Super Kings’ struggles are directly or indirectly proportional to the unavailability of MS Dhoni. The 5-time champions, for the second season in a row, have started their campaign on a disappointing note. They finished at the bottom of the points table last season, and in IPL 2026, they have suffered three consecutive defeats in as many games, once again finding themselves languishing at the bottom as the second week of the Tata IPL 2026 draws to a close.
The 44-year-old wicketkeeper‑batter, who has been nursing a calf muscle strain, has not featured in CSK’s opening matches this season, and there’s no robust date on when he could be available. According to CSK CEO Kasi Viswanathan, Dhoni is currently undergoing rehabilitation in Chennai.
“MS is undergoing rehab and it will take some time. We can’t say how much time,” Viswanathan told reporters, confirming that the team management is monitoring his progress closely.
The veteran wicket-keeper has resumed light batting practice but is not yet considered match‑fit. He continues to work with CSK’s physio and masseur, focusing on strengthening exercises and recovery routines. While fans remain hopeful of a swift comeback, insiders suggest Dhoni is unlikely to be risked for the upcoming clash against Delhi Capitals on April 11.
Chennai Super Kings have struggled left, right, and center without their talismanic wicket-keeper batter. They lost their opening game of the Tata IPL 2026 to the inaugural champions, the Rajasthan Royals, at Guwahati by 8 wickets. After being put into bat, CSK could only manage 127, which was easily chased by RR’s young batting lineup in just 12.1 overs with 8 wickets to spare.
To pick up their first win of the season, CSK flew back home to host the finalists of the last season, the Punjab Kings. Punjab, who have pipped Chennai in a head-to-head battle at Chepauk, once again stood their ground to hand the Super Kings their second loss of the season by 5 wickets.
After two losses in a row, the Super Kings were under extreme pressure, and this pressure mounted on them when they were hosted by their arch-rivals, Royal Challengers Bengaluru, at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru. CSK flattened under pressure as their bowlers took the beating of their lives when RCB posted a humongous 250 on the board. This was the highest ever team total in IPL history in a CSK vs RCB clash. The chase had a sorry start as CSK lost as many as three wickets in the powerplay itself and were bundled out for 207 in 19.4 overs. That defeat was personal, coming against their arch‑rivals, a team against whom CSK boasts a terrific head‑to‑head record.
Interestingly, rival players have weighed in on Dhoni’s absence. Sunrisers Hyderabad batter Heinrich Klaasen remarked,
“CSK has got an incredible IPL record. Even with Dhoni not being there, they are not much of a lesser side.”
Klaasen’s comments highlight the depth of CSK’s squad, though he acknowledged that Dhoni’s leadership remains irreplaceable.
Dhoni is almost certain to miss the DC clash and remains doubtful for the KKR fixture. The franchise is expected to reassess his fitness after these two games before making a decision on his return.
In Dhoni’s absence, CSK have leaned on senior players like Sanju Samson, Shivam Dube, and skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad to share responsibilities. However, none have been able to replicate Dhoni’s ability to marshal the bowlers and maintain composure under pressure.
The team’s batting has also lacked stability. Dhoni’s role as a finisher has often bailed CSK out of tight situations, and his absence has exposed the middle order. The management is now banking on Gaikwad’s consistency and Jadeja’s all‑round skills to carry the team forward until Dhoni returns.
While Dhoni’s return remains uncertain, CSK must find a way to regroup without their talisman. The franchise has historically thrived under adversity, and this season presents another stern test of resilience. If Dhoni’s recovery extends further, CSK’s campaign could be severely impacted, but the team’s depth and experience offer hope.
The management has made it clear that Dhoni will not be rushed back. His long‑term fitness is being prioritized over short‑term gains, a decision that reflects both respect for his legacy and the practical need to avoid aggravating the injury.
Tags: IPL 2026