Kamal Ghorui
NEW DELHI: MS Dhoni remains the missing piece as Chennai Super Kings take (CSK) on Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in their much-anticipated IPL 2026 clash in Bengaluru. The high-voltage southern derby at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium is set to grab attention, but CSK are coping without their iconic leader yet again.While RCB have entered the contest brimming with confidence after a strong opening win, CSK are under pressure following two consecutive defeats against Rajasthan Royals and Punjab Kings.
On Sunday, CSK skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad gave an update on Dhoni’s return after winning the toss and deciding to bowl first. He said, “MS (Dhoni) is getting back slowly, sometimes it takes time, if he’s ready to play, it’ll be soon.”Dhoni’s absence has naturally raised questions about whether the team is missing his presence on the field.CSK had earlier confirmed that Dhoni is sidelined due to a calf strain and is undergoing rehabilitation. “MS Dhoni is currently undergoing rehabilitation for a calf strain. As a result, he is likely to miss the first two weeks of IPL 2026. Get well soon, Thala,” the franchise stated.Despite not playing, head coach Stephen Fleming stressed that Dhoni continues to remain deeply involved with the team. “It is just a game without him. He is still heavily involved in the side, and his influence remains very strong,” Fleming had said before the Punjab Kings encounter.
When could MS Dhoni return for CSK?
If recovery progresses as expected, Dhoni could return when CSK face Kolkata Knight Riders on April 14 in Chennai. Should that timeline extend, the next possible comeback fixture would be against Sunrisers Hyderabad on April 18.CSK will also be hopeful of having their talisman back in time for the high-stakes encounter against Mumbai Indians on April 23, where his experience and leadership could prove crucial.
RCB vs CSK Playing XIs
Chennai Super Kings (Playing XI): Sanju Samson(w), Ruturaj Gaikwad(c), Ayush Mhatre, Sarfaraz Khan, Shivam Dube, Prashant Veer, Jamie Overton, Noor Ahmad, Anshul Kamboj, Matt Henry, Khaleel AhmedRoyal Challengers Bengaluru (Playing XI): Philip Salt, Virat Kohli, Devdutt Padikkal, Rajat Patidar(c), Jitesh Sharma(w), Tim David, Romario Shepherd, Krunal Pandya, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Abhinandan Singh, Jacob Duffy
