NEW DELHI: MS Dhoni stays the lacking piece as Chennai Tremendous Kings take (CSK) on Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) of their much-anticipated IPL 2026 conflict in Bengaluru. The high-voltage southern derby on the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium is ready to seize consideration, however CSK are coping with out their iconic chief but once more.Whereas RCB have entered the competition brimming with confidence after a robust opening win, CSK are below strain following two consecutive defeats towards Rajasthan Royals and Punjab Kings.
On Sunday, CSK skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad gave an replace on Dhoni’s return after successful the toss and deciding to bowl first. He mentioned, “MS (Dhoni) is getting again slowly, typically it takes time, if he is able to play, it’s going to be quickly.”Dhoni’s absence has naturally raised questions on whether or not the group is lacking his presence on the sector.CSK had earlier confirmed that Dhoni is sidelined as a consequence of a calf pressure and is present process rehabilitation. “MS Dhoni is presently present process rehabilitation for a calf pressure. In consequence, he’s more likely to miss the primary two weeks of IPL 2026. Get effectively quickly, Thala,” the franchise said.Regardless of not enjoying, head coach Stephen Fleming careworn that Dhoni continues to stay deeply concerned with the group. “It’s only a recreation with out him. He’s nonetheless closely concerned within the facet, and his affect stays very robust,” Fleming had mentioned earlier than the Punjab Kings encounter.
When might MS Dhoni return for CSK?
If restoration progresses as anticipated, Dhoni might return when CSK face Kolkata Knight Riders on April 14 in Chennai. Ought to that timeline prolong, the following attainable comeback fixture could be towards Sunrisers Hyderabad on April 18.CSK will even be hopeful of getting their talisman again in time for the high-stakes encounter towards Mumbai Indians on April 23, the place his expertise and management might show essential.
RCB vs CSK Taking part in XIs
Chennai Tremendous Kings (Taking part in 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 (Taking part in 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