Key moments
MS Dhoni, the legendary cricketer and captain of Chennai Super Kings, is currently 37 years old and is expected to miss the first two weeks of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 due to a calf strain. This injury has raised significant concerns regarding his fitness and potential impact on the upcoming season.
As of March 29, 2026, Dhoni’s ongoing knee problems have been well-documented, affecting his overall fitness and performance. He has played a total of 278 matches in IPL history, scoring an impressive 5,439 runs, with a highest score of 84 not out. His average runs per match stand at 38.30, and he boasts a strike rate of 137.45, making him the sixth-highest run-scorer in IPL history.
In the previous IPL season, Dhoni managed to score 196 runs across 13 innings, a performance that has been scrutinized given his current physical condition. His absence from the initial matches will place Ruturaj Gaikwad and Sanju Samson under the spotlight as they step up to fill the void left by the veteran cricketer.
Chennai Super Kings have confirmed that Dhoni is currently undergoing rehabilitation for his calf strain, emphasizing the seriousness of his condition. “It is on the way down,” Dhoni stated, indicating a cautious optimism regarding his recovery. However, details remain unconfirmed about the severity of the injury and whether he will return sooner than expected.
This season has long been speculated to be Dhoni’s last due to ongoing fitness challenges, making his absence even more significant for fans and the team alike. The IPL has been a platform where Dhoni has showcased his skills and leadership, and his potential exit raises questions about the future of Chennai Super Kings.
With the IPL 2026 season set to commence shortly, the team will need to adapt quickly to the absence of their captain. The impact of Dhoni’s injury on the team’s dynamics and performance will be closely monitored by fans and analysts alike.
As the cricketing world watches closely, the focus will be on how Chennai Super Kings navigates the early part of the season without their iconic leader. Dhoni’s legacy in the IPL is undeniable, and his age, coupled with injury challenges, adds a layer of uncertainty to his storied career.
