MS Dhoni injury update: CSK Star unlikely to play against KKR in IPL 2026

The return of legendary wicketkeeper-batter MS Dhoni remains uncertain in IPL 2026 due to a calf injury. The 44-year-old is unlikely to feature in the upcoming home clash against Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) at the MA Chidambaram Stadium on Tuesday, April 14, raising concerns for Chennai Super Kings (CSK).

The Super Kings, led by Ruturaj Gaikwad, are in the second-last position on the points table after managing just one win, while the Knight Riders, led by Ajinkya Rahane, are still searching for their first victory in IPL 2026. This upcoming match is crucial for both teams to keep their playoff hopes alive in the tournament.

MS Dhoni Likely To Miss IPL 2026 Clash vs Kolkata Knight Riders

According to ESPNCricinfo, MS Dhoni had a short batting session in the nets on Monday ahead of CSK's home match against Kolkata Knight Riders at Chepauk. He only faced throwdowns from the support staff, including Mike Hussey, and did not take part in wicketkeeping drills during the training session.

During practice, Dhoni played a few shots, including one to the midwicket boundary and another into the stands, before the session ended at 9 pm IST. However, he has not yet returned to full-intensity training and has not travelled with the team for away matches this season.

Dhoni has missed all four matches due to a calf strain and is likely to miss the fifth as well. Despite his strike rates of 182 in 2023 and 221 in 2024, he struggled last season after facing 145 balls, managing a strike rate of 135.

MS Dhoni Is Still Heavily Involved in the Side - Stephen Fleming

The veteran wicketkeeper has missed the first four matches and is also not part of the traveling squad for away games. In his absence, Sanju Samson has taken over the wicketkeeping duties. Samson scored 115 runs off 56 balls during the recent match against Delhi Capitals (DC).

Chennai Super Kings head coach Stephen Fleming spoke about the team environment without their senior leader. He said that Dhoni is still actively involved in the dressing room and continues to have a strong influence on the players during the tournament.

"It is just a game without him. He is still heavily involved in the side, and his influence remains very strong," Stephen Fleming said.

CSK Await Spencer Johnson's Return Amid Injury Uncertainty

Chennai Super Kings are also waiting for Spencer Johnson to join the squad as a replacement for the injured Nathan Ellis. The left-arm pacer is recovering from a back injury and is expected to link up with the team between April 21 and April 23.

CSK bowling coach Eric Simons said that the team values Johnson’s pace and skills but is unsure how much he will contribute this season. He added that Johnson has strong qualities and remains an exciting addition to the squad.

"I mean to have someone like him with his pace and great skills is an important one, [but] we're not sure how much of a role he'll play this year," Simons said after their win against Delhi Capitals on Saturday. "But that's fine, he's a fantastic acquisition to us. For me, I have not worked with him specifically, but I've watched him and it's very clear that he has got some tremendous attributes."

Also read: Winning or learning: Hardik Pandya turns Mohammad Rizwan in dressing room speech after loss to RCB