News Summary
Overview.
- Former Chennai Super Kings captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni is likely to miss the first two weeks of IPL 2026 due to injury.
- Sanju Samson is expected to take over wicketkeeping duties and open the batting alongside captain Ruturaj Gaikwad during Dhoni’s absence.
- Chennai Super Kings will begin their campaign on Monday against Rajasthan Royals, followed by matches against Punjab Kings, Royal Challengers Bangalore, and Delhi Capitals.
March 27, Kathmandu – Former Chennai Super Kings (CSK) captain and wicketkeeper-batsman Mahendra Singh Dhoni is expected to miss the initial two weeks of the IPL 2026 season due to injury.
The 44-year-old Dhoni is recovering from a calf strain and is unlikely to feature in the first two weeks of the tournament, according to CSK. He is currently undergoing rehabilitation.
Chennai will kick off their IPL campaign on Monday against Rajasthan Royals, followed by scheduled matches against Punjab Kings, Royal Challengers Bangalore, and Delhi Capitals.
In Dhoni’s absence, Sanju Samson is projected to assume wicketkeeping responsibilities. Samson, who was traded to Chennai this season from Rajasthan, is set to open the batting alongside captain Ruturaj Gaikwad.
CSK has been battling injury troubles including the loss of Australian fast bowler Nathan Ellis for the entire season, with Spencer Johnson brought in as his replacement.
Last season, Dhoni played all 14 matches, scoring 196 runs in 13 innings. However, CSK struggled overall, securing only four victories and finishing in the lower half of the standings.
This year, the team aims to improve their performance significantly.
