CSK, IPL and M.S. Dhoni
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Chennai Super Kings (CSK) are without MS Dhoni in their opening game of the 2026 Indian Premier League (IPL) against Rajasthan Royals (RR). Sanju Samson is making his debut while Ruturaj Gaikwad is back to lead the side.
"Thala picked up a calf injury during our training on 22 March i think. He will be out for two weeks or so. He hasn’t traveled with the team & is recuperating in Chennai. His absence is a blow," CSK CEO said while speaking to RevSportz.
MS Dhoni’s injury should, on the face of it, be read as bad news for Chennai Super Kings. He is still the franchise’s emotional centre, still their biggest name, and still the player who can make a tense finish feel manageable merely by being there.