Chennai Super Kings are gearing up to face Punjab Kings at the M.A. Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai for their first home game. However, they are likely to be without their star player, Mahendra Singh Dhoni, who sustained a calf strain injury during a practice session a week ago. The team confirmed that Dhoni is undergoing rehabilitation and is expected to miss the first two weeks of the TATA IPL 2026 season.
Dhoni, who has led CSK to five IPL titles, is currently in Chennai undergoing rehabilitation for his injury. Despite his injury, Dhoni was seen practicing in the nets before the Punjab Kings match. He spent around thirty minutes batting alongside Urvil Patel, initially struggling with his shot-making but eventually finding his form and hitting powerful shots that soared into the stands.
When questioned about Dhoni’s return date, skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad humorously replied that he would know only after the “13th day is done.” The team is hopeful for Dhoni’s swift recovery and return to the playing XI. The match against Punjab Kings will be a crucial one for CSK as they aim to start their home campaign on a winning note.
The article was published on April 3, 2026.
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