Last Update on: March 30th, 2023 at 10:02 pm

The 4-time Indian Premier League (IPL) champions Chennai Super Kings (CSK) have been handed a massive blow as the legendary captain and wicketkeeper-batter MS Dhoni is likely to miss the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2023 opening clash due to an injury, according to the Indian Express.

The 16th edition of Indian Premier League (IPL) will commence on Friday, March 31, with the battle between defending champions Gujarat Titans and 4-time champions Chennai Super Kings at the Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad.

Also Read: GT vs CSK: “It Will Be A Disservice To MS Dhoni And What He Has Achieved If…..” – Aakash Chopra Makes A Huge Remark Ahead Of IPL 2023

Ahead of the season opener, a captains’ meeting and photoshoot were organised on Thursday, March 30 and MS Dhoni was present in the event. However, he is highly like to miss the tournament opener against Hardik Pandya & Co. due to a niggle in his left knee.

Reportedly, Dhoni is feeling some discomfort and doesn’t want to push too much. Notably, MS Dhoni was involved in the team’s practice session at the Narendra Modi Stadium, but he didn’t bat in the nets.

Also Read: IPL 2023: 10 Indian Players Who Can Retire From T20s After The Tournament

Who Will Captain And Keep Wickets In MS Dhoni’s Absence?

The Chennai Super Kings (CSK) don’t have a regular wicketkeeper-batter in the setup other than MS Dhoni. In case MS Dhoni misses the high-voltage game, the New Zealand opener Devon Conway could be handed the wicket-keeping responsibility. However, if Devon Conway doesn’t play Ruturaj Gaikwad or Ambati Rayudu will have to step in as keeper.

Speaking of captaincy options, Chennai Super Kings (CSK) have players like Ben Stokes, Ravindra Jadeja and Ruturaj Gaikwad in the squad, who are all capable of leading the team.

However, Ben Stokes is also struggling from a niggle and he will not bowl in the first few matches of the tournament. Ruturaj Gaikwad or Ravindra Jadeja, who led the franchise last year, will be seen leading the team if MS Dhoni gets ruled out of the match.

Talking further about MS Dhoni’s injury, the legendary wicketkeeper-batter has been struggling with knee issues for the last few days. Although he took part in the practice session at Chepauk, MS Dhoni was struggling to run.

As per the same report, the franchise is optimistic about MS Dhoni’s quick recovery. However, if things don’t go as per the plan, Chennai Super Kings will have to make some big changes to their playing XI.

Also Read: “India Had MS Dhoni, Rohit Sharma Whereas Our Players Were Yet To Lose Their Milk Teeth” – Sarfaraz Ahmed’s Massive Statement

GT vs CSK: Major Blow For CSK As MS Dhoni Likely To Miss IPL 2023 Opener vs Gujarat Titans Due To An Injury – Reports

Who Will Captain And Keep Wickets In MS Dhoni’s Absence?

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Sonanchal Gautam