Yellow Camp lost their opening match against the 2008 IPL winners Rajasthan Royals by eight wickets, and MS Dhoni’s absence has left a noticeable void in the team. The former captain, whose injury was confirmed on March 28, is expected to be out for at least two weeks, meaning Chennai will have to navigate the early part of IPL 2026 without their talismanic leader.
When MS Dhoni will play
Dhoni is likely to make his return in the CSK vs Kolkata Knight Riders game on April 14 at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chepauk, giving fans hope of seeing the veteran back in action. Chennai’s first home game on April 3 against the Punjab Kings will be without him. After that, an away match in Bengaluru against Royal Challengers Bangalore precedes a home clash with Delhi Capitals—another game Dhoni is likely to miss.
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Realistically, the 44-year-old could miss up to five matches this season, the most he has ever missed in a single IPL campaign. While he may return earlier if recovery goes smoothly, the team is expected to prioritise his fitness. Dhoni’s early absence underlines how pivotal the veteran is to Chennai’s strategy and balance, and his comeback will be eagerly anticipated by fans across the league.
