List of matches MSD has missed for CSK in Chennai [Source: AFP]CSK was expected to do well in the IPL 2026, especially after strengthening their batting department in the IPL mini auction. However, the Super Kings got a reality check as Rajasthan Royals thrashed them in the opening contest, and that too without breaking a sweat.This season, CSK is a young team, but the defeat against RR made one thing clear: The side definitely missed the experience of MS Dhoni, who commanded things from behind the stumps. Even at 44, MSD is crucial to the franchise’s success, and his absence was felt against the Royals.IPL matches MS Dhoni has missed at ChepaukSuper Kings suffered a massive jolt before the start of the IPL 2026, when it was revealed that MS Dhoni will miss at least the first half of the season due to a side strain injury. This came in as a massive shock since MSD was expected to play an integral part in their campaign.He missed the match against RR, and was also kept on the sidelines for the IPL 2026 game against Punjab Kings at the Chepauk. Interestingly, in IPL history, this is just the third game at the Chepauk, where the 44-year-old will not feature for CSK.The first instance was in 2010, when he missed the clash against the Punjab Kings, tonight's opponent.Then in 2019, he missed the El Clásico against the Mumbai Indians. Now, tonight’s fixture is just the third time MSD won’t be seen in the Yellow colour in Chennai.Also Read: Ravindra Jadeja Reveals MS Dhoni's Shocking Take On His CSK To RR MoveA historic night for CSK in the absence of legendsOver the years, CSK has produced some quality players, and the five-time IPL champions have built superstars in the last 19 years. MS Dhoni is still going strong at 44, but apart from him, the other legendary players, Ravindra Jadeja, and Suresh Raina, have either left the team, or have retired from the IPL.This is the first time CSK will be taking the field in Chennai without either MS Dhoni, Ravindra Jadeja or Suresh Raina in the XI. The trio was inseparable in the IPL, and it was due to their experience and skills that CSK managed to win five IPL titles.Hence, it would be interesting to see how the Yellow Army copes against the Punjab Kings in the absence of MS Dhoni and other veterans.How many matches will MS Dhoni miss in IPL 2026CSK would have hoped for MSD’s availability for the entire season, as his experience would have been vital for the franchise on the field. However, that was not possible as the former India skipper was ruled out at the start of the tournament, and fans are interested in knowing the exact timeline of his return.According to the latest report, the CSK legend could miss up to 6 IPL 2026 matches for the team, and this comes as a massive blow. Two games he has already missed (RR, PBKS), and he’ll also miss the next four games.His expected return date is around late April, as MSD is targeting a return against the Mumbai Indians on April 23.Also Read: CSK vs PBKS IPL 2026 Toss Report: MS Dhoni Still Nursing Injury
