New Delhi: MS Dhoni has been sidelined since the commencement of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026, missing all matches for the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) due to a calf injury sustained prior to the tournament. CSK has confirmed that Dhoni is expected to be absent for at least the first two weeks.
Dhoni did not participate in his team’s match against the Delhi Capitals at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai, as he remains unfit. In contrast, Dewald Brevis made his anticipated return from a side strain, while Dhoni is still unable to take the field.
CSK captain Ruturaj Gaikwad provided an update on Dhoni’s status during a toss interview. In response to broadcaster and former cricketer Ravi Shastri’s inquiry about Dhoni, Gaikwad stated, “For those asking about MS Dhoni, he’s at the hotel watching and supporting us. But yes, very soon, you’ll see him out on the ground.”
The Super Kings made two changes to their lineup, with Brevis returning and Gurjapneet Singh included. “When you look at the balance of the side, we are definitely playing to our potential. It’s great to have Brevis back; he’s excited and ready. The middle order looks solid as well. We’ve also brought in Gurjapneet Singh, who has been bowling well recently, in place of Matt Henry,” Gaikwad added.
Meanwhile, Delhi Capitals captain Axar Patel won the toss and indicated that his team would bowl first. “We would like to bowl first because the pitch looks good, and whatever score is set, we would prefer to chase it,” Patel explained. “The IPL is a long tournament, and the dressing room atmosphere is very relaxed. The discussion has been around focusing on what we can control. Once we reach a certain point, there’s no need to overthink things.”
Patel also commented on the pitch conditions, noting, “It has been a good batting wicket this season. Over the last couple of years in Chennai, it has played well. It’s a red soil pitch, so there should be good bounce. Our aim will be to restrict them to as low a total as possible and then chase it down.” He announced two changes: Nabi comes in for Vipraj, and Ashutosh Sharma replaces Nitish Rana.
