Why is MS Dhoni not playing for CSK vs Rajasthan Royals in IPL 2026?

The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 has started with exciting matches. In the third game, Chennai Super Kings (CSK), who have won the title five times, will play against Rajasthan Royals (RR), who won the very first IPL, in Guwahati. Rajasthan comes into the match after a recent acquisition by a consortium led by US entrepreneur Kal Somani.

The Yellow Army will be looking to kickstart their campaign under some new changes on their side. But the Chennai-based franchise has also been handed a couple of jolts as they will miss veteran wicketkeeper-batter and former captain MS Dhoni, who suffered a calf strain during a training session on March 22.

MS Dhoni Out of CSK Matches Due to Injury

CSK CEO Kasi Viswanathan has confirmed that Dhoni did not travel with the team to Guwahati.

“He picked up a calf injury during out training on March 22. He will be out for two weeks or so. He hasn’t traveled with the team and is recuperating in Chennai. His absence is a blow,” Kasi said while speaking to RevSportz.

Reports now indicate that Dhoni will be sidelined for a longer period. Rather than missing just four matches, the veteran wicketkeeper is likely to sit out at least six games, potentially making his IPL comeback against the Mumbai Indians on April 23 in Mumbai.

Kasi said, “Obviously, Sanju will be keeping because MS Dhoni is not going to play. Of course, we will be missing the advice of Dhoni during the matches. Sanju Samson’s form is great, and he is knocking well in the nets.”

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IPL 2026, PBKS vs GT Match Prediction: Who Will Win, Fantasy Picks, Top Batters and Bowlers Gujarat Titans will face Punjab Kings in the 4th match of IPL 2026 on March 31st at the Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket Stadium, Mullanpur, starting at 7:30 PM.

by Dwijesh March 29, 2026