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MS Dhoni and Rohit Sharma (Source: AFP)
The bond between MS Dhoni and CSK has defined the IPL for years. Since the league began in 2008, MS Dhoni has been the face of CSK and an important reason behind their success. CSK entered the IPL 2026 season with strong expectations after improving their batting lineup in the mini auction.
But injuries, including Dhoni's absence (due to injury), have disrupted their plans and their performance.
CSK's campaign so far in IPL 2026
CSK's journey in IPL 2026 has been inconsistent. They began their campaign with three consecutive defeats. First, they lost to the Rajasthan Royals by 8 wickets, followed by a 5-wicket loss against Punjab Kings. Their struggles continued with a 43-run defeat against RCB.
But then the team showed signs of recovery with back-to-back wins. They defeated Delhi Capitals by 23 runs and then beat KKR by 32 runs.
However, momentum slipped again when CSK lost to SRH by 10 runs in a closely fought match. In that game, SRH posted 194 runs, powered by strong performances from Abhishek Sharma and Heinrich Klaasen. Despite a fighting chase, CSK fell short in the final overs.
Currently, CSK is in the 7th position on the points table with just two wins from six matches.
Endless injury concerns for CSK in IPL 2026
CSK's biggest challenge this season has been injuries. MS Dhoni has not played a single match so far due to a calf strain. The South African star player Dewald Brevis missed early matches, while bowlers Khaleel Ahmed and Nathan Ellis are sidelined due to injuries.
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The situation worsened for the 'Yellow Army' when young batter Ayush Mhatre, who has been a standout performer, suffered a hamstring injury and is expected to be out for weeks.
The absence of players has made it difficult for CSK to maintain consistency.
When will MS Dhoni return for CSK?
MS Dhoni is currently with the CSK squad in Mumbai ahead of their next match at Wankhede Stadium. However, there is no confirmed date for his return.
Batting coach Michael Hussey has shared that Dhoni is progressing well in rehab and is batting comfortably in the nets. The main concern remains his running between the wickets.
As of now, it remains unclear whether MS Dhoni will be 100% fit in time for the clash against Mumbai Indians.
"Not really, I'm not sure," said Hussey about Dhoni's possible return. "He's progressing nicely with his rehab, and I'm happy with how he's batting."
"It's just about progressing with his running, because if he's going to bat towards the back end of the innings, he'll need to be able to run quick singles and twos. He just needs to build confidence in his running and improve his speed. I don't know when he'll play, but I'm hoping it's sooner rather than later, like all the fans."
When was the last time Dhoni missed a match against MI?
The last time MS Dhoni missed a match against the Mumbai Indians was on April 26, 2019. He was ruled out due to fever, and Suresh Raina led the side in his absence.
That match remains a rare instance, as Dhoni has been remarkably consistent for CSK. Between 2008 and 2025, he missed only 5 matches due to injury or illness.
If he misses the upcoming fixture against MI, it will mark the first such absence in seven years in the IPL.
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