MS Dhoni (Image credit: CSK/IPL) NEW DELHI: Chennai Super Kings are facing growing uncertainty over the availability of their talisman and former skipper MS Dhoni, with the veteran wicketkeeper-batsman still a bit out of full fitness as the IPL 2026 season gathers pace.According to a Cricbuzz report, Dhoni is currently undergoing rehabilitation for a calf muscle strain and is unlikely to be ready in time for CSK’s match against Delhi Capitals on April 11. At this stage, the 44-year-old may need at least another week before he can return to action, raising serious doubts over his participation in the next two matches.
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Fleming explains where CSK lost the match in the last 4 overs CSK are scheduled to host Delhi Capitals and Kolkata Knight Riders at Chepauk in the coming days, but Dhoni is almost certain to miss the first game and remains a doubtful starter in the second. His absence comes at a critical time, with the five-time champions yet to open their account this season after three successive defeats.Rehab in Chennai, return timeline unclearDhoni stayed back in Chennai instead of traveling with the team for away matches, including matches in Guwahati and Bengaluru. His absence during CSK’s recent home match against Punjab Kings further fueled speculation about his fitness.The report said that Dhoni is working closely with the CSK support staff, including a physiotherapist and masseur, as part of his recovery programme. He has also resumed light practice, including batting at the nets recently, but is yet to reach match fitness.“MS is undergoing rehabilitation and it will take some time. We cannot say how long,” CSK CEO Kasi Viswanathan said, hinting that there is no firm timetable for his return.CSK are struggling without their talismanDhoni’s unavailability has coincided with a poor start for CSK, who are currently enjoying one of their worst openings to an IPL campaign. The franchise’s only worse start came in 2022, when it lost its first four games.While the team has depth, the absence of their most experienced figure has left a visible gap, especially in crunch situations.Interestingly, Sunrisers Hyderabad batsman Heinrich Klaasen offered a contrasting view, suggesting that Dhoni’s absence may not drastically alter CSK’s strength on the field.“CSK have an incredible record in the IPL. Even without Dhoni, they are not much of a lesser side,” Klaasen told the JioStar press office, adding that Dhoni’s influence is felt more in leadership than in batting.
