MS Dhoni is likely to miss the first two weeks of Indian Premier League 2026 as he continues to recover from a calf strain, Chennai Super Kings confirmed on Saturday.
The veteran wicketkeeper-batter is currently undergoing rehabilitation, the franchise said in a post on X.
With the new IPL season starting today, CSK will begin their campaign on March 30 against Rajasthan Royals. In the opening two weeks, they are also set to face Punjab Kings, Royal Challengers Bengaluru and Delhi Capitals.
In Dhoni’s absence, Sanju Samson, who joined CSK from the Royals before the season, is expected to take over wicketkeeping duties. Urvil Patel and Kartik Sharma are the other options available for the role.
CSK had signed Kartik for Rs 14.20 crore after his impressive six-hitting performances in domestic cricket, while Urvil was retained after featuring in three matches last season.
Dhoni had played every game for CSK last year, mostly batting lower down the order. However, the team has already suffered an injury setback ahead of IPL 2026, with Australian pacer Nathan Ellis ruled out due to a hamstring injury. He has been replaced by fellow Australian Spencer Johnson.
CSK had a disappointing IPL 2025 campaign, finishing at the bottom of the table with just four wins.
