MS Dhoni will miss Chennai Tremendous Kings’ IPL 2026 opener towards Rajasthan Royals on Monday in Guwahati, marking the primary time of their historical past that each Dhoni and Raina, two of the franchise’s largest superstars, will function in a sportRaina has retired from skilled cricket, whereas Dhoni is ready to overlook the opening part of the event resulting from damage. In an announcement, the franchise stated, “Official Assertion. MS Dhoni is at the moment present process rehabilitation for a calf pressure. Because of this, he’s more likely to miss the primary two weeks of the IPL 2026. Get properly quickly, Thala!”This match would be the first amongst 277 T20 video games, together with 24 within the CLT20, the place CSK is not going to have both Dhoni or Raina within the enjoying XI. The crew has beforehand performed 77 matches with out Raina and 5 with out Dhoni, however by no means with out each.Additionally learn: Solely 5 in 253! Matches MS Dhoni has missed for CSK in IPLThe present season additionally displays a shift in strategy, with the franchise investing extra in youthful gamers. Dhoni’s absence is because of a calf pressure, and he’s anticipated to be unavailable at the very least till mid-April, although a return later within the month stays attainable.The final time Dhoni missed an IPL match was in 2019, when he sat out towards Mumbai Indians on April 26 in Chennai resulting from fever, with Raina main the aspect. He additionally missed a match earlier that season towards Sunrisers Hyderabad on April 17 due to a again spasm.In whole, Dhoni has missed solely 5 IPL matches since 2008. Three of these got here within the 2010 season — towards Delhi Daredevils in Delhi, Kings XI Punjab in Chennai, and Royal Challengers Bengaluru in Bengaluru.From 2020 to 2025, Dhoni performed each CSK match. This included main the crew to IPL titles in 2021 and 2023. He additionally featured in all 14 matches within the 2025 season. Throughout the 2016 and 2017 seasons, when CSK have been suspended, he represented Rising Pune Supergiant.With 278 appearances, Dhoni is the most-capped participant in IPL historical past and has led a aspect in 235 matches, additionally a report. His absence leaves a youthful CSK aspect with out one in all its most skilled gamers.