Dhoni age: MS and Injury Status: Updates Ahead of IPL 2026

By Vikram Nair / 30.03.2026

Key moments

MS Dhoni, the veteran captain of the Chennai Super Kings, is set to miss the first two weeks of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 due to a calf strain. This injury has raised questions about his fitness and future in the sport, especially as he turns 37 years old on March 29, 2026.

Dhoni’s absence from the initial matches will be a significant blow to the Chennai Super Kings, who rely heavily on his experience and leadership on the field. The team confirmed that he is currently undergoing rehabilitation for the calf strain, which has been a recurring issue for him. In addition to this injury, Dhoni has been dealing with ongoing knee problems that have affected his overall fitness.

Throughout his IPL career, Dhoni has played a remarkable 278 matches, scoring a total of 5,439 runs, which places him as the sixth-highest run-scorer in the tournament’s history. His highest score in the IPL is 84 not out, showcasing his ability to perform under pressure. Last season, he managed to score 196 runs in 13 innings, maintaining an average of 38.30 and a strike rate of 137.45.

The current season has been surrounded by speculation regarding whether it could be Dhoni’s last, given his ongoing fitness challenges. His absence from the team during the early matches will put younger players like Ruturaj Gaikwad and Sanju Samson in the spotlight, as they will need to step up in Dhoni’s absence.

“It is on the way down,” Dhoni remarked, hinting at his ongoing struggles with injuries. This statement reflects the reality many fans and analysts have been discussing regarding his future in the sport. The Chennai Super Kings have not traveled with him to Guwahati for their upcoming match, further emphasizing the seriousness of his condition.

Details remain unconfirmed about the severity of Dhoni’s calf strain and whether he will be able to return sooner than expected. The team and fans alike are hoping for a swift recovery, as his leadership and experience are invaluable to the Chennai Super Kings’ campaign in IPL 2026.

As the tournament progresses, all eyes will be on Dhoni’s rehabilitation process and the performance of the team without their iconic captain. The coming weeks will be crucial in determining not only his return but also the impact of his absence on the team’s overall performance in the league.