Chennai Super Kings will be playing without their iconic wicketkeeper-batter, MS Dhoni, as they face Rajasthan Royals at the ACA Stadium in Barsapara, Guwahati on Monday. Dhoni sustained a calf strain during the team’s preparations and will be sidelined for the initial stages of the tournament.
This will be the first time since the 2019 IPL that CSK will be without Dhoni on the field. In 2019, Dhoni missed two games due to a back spasm and a viral fever. Despite his absence, CSK managed to reach the final, where they narrowly lost to Mumbai Indians by one run.
The first match that Dhoni missed in 2019 was against Sunrisers Hyderabad, which CSK lost by six wickets. He also missed another league match against Mumbai Indians, which CSK lost by 46 runs. In both games, Suresh Raina took over the captaincy in Dhoni’s absence.
It is unclear when Dhoni will return to the playing XI, but his absence will undoubtedly be felt by the team and fans alike. The veteran cricketer has been an integral part of CSK’s success over the years, and his leadership on the field will be sorely missed. Published on Mar 30, 2026.
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