Is MS Dhoni playing IPL 2026? Unfortunately, the answer is no, at least for the beginning of the season. The legendary cricketer missed Chennai Super Kings’ (CSK) match against Rajasthan Royals (RR) due to a calf strain and is expected to be unavailable for the first two weeks of the tournament.
This absence is particularly poignant as it marks the first time CSK has played without both Dhoni and Suresh Raina in the playing XI. The iconic duo has been a cornerstone of the franchise, and their absence was felt deeply in the match against RR, where CSK’s innings collapsed to just 127 runs in 19.4 overs.
Dhoni’s last missed IPL match was in 2019, making this a significant moment for fans and the team alike. Over his illustrious career, he has played 278 matches in the IPL, scoring 5,439 runs at an average of 38.30. His leadership and experience have been invaluable to CSK, especially in challenging situations.
In the match against RR, CSK struggled without their stabilizing presence. As one observer noted, “CSK missed Dhoni more as a stabilizing presence than as a guaranteed batting fix.” This sentiment underscores the impact Dhoni has on the team’s dynamics, far beyond just his batting skills.
Adding to the challenge, CSK finished in 10th position in the IPL 2025 points table, while RR was not far behind, finishing second-last. The stakes are high for CSK this season, and Dhoni’s absence could have lasting implications.
Vaibhav Sooryavanshi shone for RR, scoring 52 runs off just 17 balls, further highlighting the struggles faced by CSK’s top order. The team has now played five matches without Dhoni and four without Raina, a stark reminder of the changing landscape of the franchise.
As the IPL 2026 season progresses, fans are left wondering how CSK will adapt in Dhoni’s absence and when they might see their captain back on the field. Details remain unconfirmed regarding his exact return date, but the cricketing world watches closely.
