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MS Dhoni to Miss IPL 2026 Start with Calf Strain, Fuels Retirement Talk

Chennai Super Kings have announced that MS Dhoni is likely to miss the first two weeks of IPL 2026 as he undergoes rehabilitation for a calf strain. This injury adds to existing concerns about his fitness and persistent knee issues, which he recently acknowledged are declining. The franchise's recent trades, including acquiring Sanju Samson and investing in a young wicketkeeper, have intensified speculation that this season may be Dhoni's farewell. Dhoni, the sixth-highest run-scorer in IPL history, has adapted his game in recent years to preserve his body while remaining a potent finisher.

Key Points: MS Dhoni Injured, Likely to Miss First Two Weeks of IPL 2026

  • Dhoni out with calf strain
  • Could miss first two weeks of IPL 2026
  • Fuels speculation of final season
  • CSK trades bring in Sanju Samson
  • Dhoni's fitness and role have evolved
2 min read

MS Dhoni likely to miss first two weeks of IPL 2026 due to calf strain

CSK icon MS Dhoni is set to miss the start of IPL 2026 due to a calf strain, intensifying speculation that this season could be his last.

"it is on the way down - MS Dhoni"

Chennai, March 28

Chennai Super Kings and Indian cricketing icon MS Dhoni is likely to miss the first two weeks of the Indian Premier League 2026 due to a calf strain, announced the franchise on Saturday.

A statement issued by the Yellow franchise said, "MS Dhoni is currently undergoing rehabilitation for a calf strain. As a result, he is likely to miss the first two weeks of TATA IPL 2026. Get well soon, Thala!"

CSK will be starting the season on March 30 against the 2008 champions, Rajasthan Royals, at Guwahati, with the former RR player Sanju Samson now having joined the Yellow franchise and the veteran CSK, India legend Ravindra Jadeja getting a homecoming to RR after a trade ahead of the auction. The trade also involved English all-rounder Sam Curran being traded from CSK to RR, but the pace bowling all-rounder will miss out the tournament due to injury.

It has long been speculated that this season, after all, could be Dhoni's last season, with his knee issues persisting. Dhoni even acknowledged his declining level of fitness during the 'ROAR 26' fan event at Chepauk stadium recently, saying that "it is on the way down". These fitness, age and knee-related issues have caused him to shift to the lower-middle-order and unleash some big hits during the death overs phase, preserving his body and also entertaining the 'Thala Kingdom'.

With Ruturaj Gaikwad leading the franchise for a while and the franchise roping in a fan favourite wicketkeeping option in Samson and investing Rs 14.20 crores in uncapped Rajasthan wicketkeeper-batter Kartik Sharma, the speculations of IPL 2026 being Dhoni's swangsong have only intensified, with these investments looked as preparations for a life after Dhoni for CSK.

In 278 matches, Dhoni has made 5,439 runs in 242 innings at an average of 38.30 and a strike rate of 137.45, including 24 fifties and a best score of 84*. He is the sixth-highest run-getter in the tournament history. In last season's wooden spoon finish, Dhoni scored 196 runs in 13 innings at an average of 24.50 and a strike rate of over 135, with a best score of 30*.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

S
Sarah B
While it's sad, maybe this is a blessing in disguise. It gives Ruturaj full captaincy control from day one and allows Sanju Samson to settle in as the main keeper. The team needs to build for the future, even if it's painful to admit.
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Vikram M
The writing has been on the wall for a while. His body is giving him signals. As a fan, I just want to see him play one last time, even if it's just for a few matches. He's earned the right to bow out on his own terms. #ThalaForever
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Rohit P
Honestly, CSK management should have planned better. Spending 14 crore on an uncapped keeper when we have glaring issues in the pace department? The team came last in 2025! Our strategy seems emotional, not practical.
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Priya S
Health comes first! At 44+, what he's still doing is incredible. Let him rest and recover properly. We fans will wait. Just want to hear that "Dhoni finishes off in style" commentary one more time. 🥺
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Michael C
The trade dynamics are fascinating. Jadeja back to RR, Samson to CSK. It's like a mini soap opera! But losing both Dhoni and Curran at the start is a massive blow for CSK's campaign. Other players need to step up big time.

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