MS Dhoni ruled out for 2 weeks with calf injury:Thala to undergo rehab, Sanju Samson likely to keep wickets for CSK

Chennai Super Kings (CSK) have officially announced that MS Dhoni will miss the opening two weeks of IPL 2026 due to a calf injury. Dhoni is currently focused on his recovery and is undergoing rehabilitation to regain full fitness. The team management is closely monitoring his progress and hopes he will be back in action soon. In Dhoni’s absence, Sanju Samson is likely to step in as the team’s full-time wicketkeeper. This move will help CSK maintain stability in their lineup while they wait for Dhoni’s return. Fans will be eagerly hoping to see their captain back on the field as soon as possible. CSK confirms – MS Dhoni ruled out of first two weeks Five-time IPL Champion, Chennai Super Kings, has officially confirmed that MS Dhoni has been ruled out for the initial two weeks of the IPL 2026 season. Dhoni has suffered a calf strain during the practice sessions and intra-squad matches. He is currently undergoing the rehab process. CSK’s medical team is monitoring closely for his speedy recovery. Also read: Can gritty Gill, super Siraj bring glory for Gujarat Titans?:Consistency key for 2022 champions; GT SWOT analysis The franchise shared the update on social media, saying, “MS Dhoni is currently undergoing rehabilitation for a calf strain. As a result, he is likely to miss the first two weeks of IPL 2026. Get well soon, Thala!” Sanju Samson likely to step in as full-time wicket-keeper With MS Dhoni set to miss at least the first two weeks of IPL 2026, Chennai Super Kings are likely to turn to their newly acquired player Sanju Samson as the full-time wicketkeeper. Samson comes into the squad with strong form, having delivered an outstanding performance in the T20 World Cup, where he was named Player of the Tournament after scoring three consecutive half-centuries in the playoffs. CSK secured Samson from Rajasthan Royals in a major trade ahead of the mini-auction for ₹18 crore. In exchange, Rajasthan Royals brought in Ravindra Jadeja and Sam Curran from Chennai, making it one of the biggest deals ahead of the season. Samson’s inclusion is expected to add strength to CSK’s lineup during Dhoni’s absence. Also read: RCB take on SRH in blockbuster season opener:No opening ceremony, Virat Kohli’s men up against Abhishek Sharma’s army Ruturaj Gaikwad praised Dhoni’s approach for future generation In a conversation on the CSK’s YouTube, captain Ruturaj Gaikwad has praised the approach of MS Dhoni for the future generation. H said, “I have huge respect for Mahi Bhai. He doesn’t attend team discussions himself, he wants Fleming and me to take things forward. He tells us, ‘Even if you ask for my advice, you don’t necessarily have to follow it’. He believes our ideas should drive the team.” “He isn’t focused on what is ‘right’ or ‘wrong’ – if he sees a problem, he just focuses on how to solve it. For someone of his stature to take a step back trust us to lead is a huge thing,” he concluded further. Ruturaj is set to lead the side as he left out mid-season last year due to injury concerns.