PTC Web Desk: In a major setback to fans of MS Dhoni, the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) star MS Dhoni is not playing in the first two weeks of IPL 2026 due to a leg muscle strain. The announcement was made on Saturday.

Chennai Super Kings, in a statement, stated that currently, Dhoni is focusing on special exercises and rehabilitation in order to have speedy recovery from the injury. The team wished him a speedy recovery, saying — "Get well soon, Thala!"

CSK's opening matches without Dhoni

Chennai Super Kings will be beginning their IPL 2026 campaign on March 30 against Rajasthan Royals in Guwahati. MS Dhoni is likely to miss first four matches. This also includes games against Punjab Kings, Royal Challengers Bengaluru, and Delhi Capitals. New signing Sanju Samson is expected to take up wicketkeeping duties alongside captain Ruturaj Gaikwad.

Big player changes this season

The IPL season this year has gone through a major squad reshuffling across teams. Sanju Samson, earlier with Rajasthan Royals, has joined Chennai Super Kings. Meanwhile, long-serving CSK all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja has returned to his old team, Rajasthan Royals.

Is this Dhoni's last IPL season?

It is being said that IPL 2026 could be the final season of Dhoni's legendary career. However, there has been no official word on this. The 44-year-old cricketer has been facing knee problems for some time now.

At a recent fan event at Chepauk Stadium, MS Dhoni admitted to health issues saying ' fitness levels are no longer what they used to be...is on the way down".