At a glance:
- Ruturaj Gaikwad confirmed at the toss that Dhoni would miss the match due to fitness issues.
- The veteran has not played a single game for Chennai Super Kings this season despite travelling with the squad.
- CSK still remain in contention for the IPL 2026 playoffs.
Legendary player MS Dhoni will not be playing for the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) on Monday at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai against the Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH).
According to rumors, Dhoni has recovered from the calf ailment that prevented him from playing in the first half of the 2026 Indian Premier League. However, he recently injured his thumb and feels he cannot contribute fully, even as an impact player for the club.
At the toss, Ruturaj Gaikwad said that Dhoni was “not fit enough” to participate in the game. He did not, however, rule out the seasoned former India captain participating in the season.
Local fans who had gathered at Chepauk with the hope of seeing the 44-year-old veteran make his first IPL appearance were disappointed with the announcement. This will be Chennai’s final home fixture in the league stage, which carries a great deal of emotional significance as a potential venue farewell.
“Good news is MS Dhoni is still here but he is not fit enough to play this game. Hopefully we win this and you never know in the last game”.
Why MS Dhoni has not featured for Chennai Super Kings in IPL 2026
Management’s cautious approach to their most decorated player is evident in this statement. Despite not playing in any games, Dhoni has continued to travel with the team for the games.
However, he hasn’t followed the squad to the majority of away games and hasn’t shown up at stadiums during games, which has led to more conjecture on his availability and long-term prospects in the IPL.
For the whole IPL 2026 season, Dhoni has not been on the active roster. Back in March, the veteran suffered a serious calf rupture during a preseason training game. Coach Stephen Fleming previously said Dhoni’s initial recovery timeline had been extended after he aggravated his injury during a warm-up simulation before the tournament began.
Read Here: Is MS Dhoni going to play his final match in Chennai against SRH?
CSK seek crucial win to break into top four
Chennai Super Kings‘ absence from Dhoni is not the only factor that will weigh heavily on their minds tonight. To guarantee a spot in the top four, the five-time champions need victories in their two remaining league matches. They are placed sixth on the points table with 12 points from 12 games.
They will advance to the top four of the league rankings with a victory, while Punjab Kings will fall to fifth place. The outcome of CSK’s matchup with the formidable Hyderabad might be intriguing.
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