When I was scrolling through the latest news India updates on my phone this morning, the headline about MS Dhoni missing the Sunrisers Hyderabad clash caught my eye instantly. In my neighborhood, even the street vendors were talking about how this could change the whole flow of the tournament. It feels like the IPL drama is turning into a real-life saga, and I couldn't help but share my thoughts with a few friends over chai.
Things are getting worse for Chennai Super Kings in an already tough‑going IPL 2026 season. After Khaleel Ahmed was ruled out of the season because of injury, MS Dhoni has now been sidelined from taking part in the upcoming Sunrisers Hyderabad versus Chennai Super Kings fixture at Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium.
MS Dhoni was initially ruled out for the first two weeks of IPL 2026 after sustaining a calf strain during pre‑season practice sessions. Along with Dewald Brevis, MS Dhoni was reportedly progressing nicely, but while Dewald Brevis has regained full fitness, MS Dhoni has yet to become match‑fit.
Meanwhile, MS Dhoni has started training in the nets in light sessions, but MS Dhoni has not travelled with the Chennai Super Kings unit to Hyderabad for the upcoming fixture at Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium.
MS Dhoni to miss Sunrisers Hyderabad clash, does not travel with Chennai Super Kings
As reported by Cricbuzz, the 44‑year‑old MS Dhoni won't take part in the Sunrisers Hyderabad versus Chennai Super Kings match of IPL 2026.
"The 44‑year‑old (MS Dhoni) is still not match‑fit and remains unlikely to feature in the upcoming fixture against Sunrisers Hyderabad," the report stated.
Furthermore, it has been determined that MS Dhoni won't travel to Hyderabad with the Chennai Super Kings team.
"It is understood that MS Dhoni has not yet communicated travel plans to the team, casting further uncertainty over availability for the game," the report added.
Interestingly, Chennai Super Kings have played two away games so far this season, and MS Dhoni has been absent from the Chennai Super Kings squad in both fixtures against Rajasthan Royals and Bengaluru franchise.
Who is keeping wickets for Chennai Super Kings in MS Dhoni's absence?
Although Chennai Super Kings are not missing a wicket‑keeper entirely, the five‑time champions are certainly missing MS Dhoni's tactical genius on the field. In MS Dhoni's absence, Sanju Samson is donning the keeper’s gloves for Chennai Super Kings.
Meanwhile, the Chennai‑based team also used the young and talented wicket‑keeper Kartik Sharma in the initial few matches, not as a keeper but as a lower‑middle‑order batter. However, Kartik Sharma's string of low scores led Kartik Sharma to lose the place after three outings.
Concerning factors for Chennai Super Kings before Sunrisers Hyderabad match
After starting on a rather poor note, losing three on the trot, the Super Kings made a turnaround against Delhi Capitals at Chepauk. Thanks to Sanju Samson’s special century, Chennai Super Kings outsmarted the Capitals, before they thrashed Kolkata Knight Riders again at home.
As Chennai Super Kings went gung‑ho with the bat, Sanju Samson scored 48 runs at the top, while Ayush Mhatre, Dewald Brevis and Sarfaraz Khan all played timely cameos. Later in the defence, Noor Ahmad regained his form with a solid three‑for as Chennai Super Kings restricted Kolkata Knight Riders to 160/7 in the chase of 193 runs.
Chennai Super Kings are yet to win an away game in the IPL 2026, and Chennai Super Kings are short of runs from skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad. Having said that, there is outside noise to swap Ayush Mhatre as an opener and demote Ruturaj Gaikwad to number 3. Meanwhile, Chennai Super Kings need to find an apt replacement for new‑ball weapon Khaleel Ahmed as well.
What happened next is interesting: the chatter among fans on social media turned into a full‑blown debate about whether Chennai Super Kings should gamble on a younger opener or stick with the experienced Ruturaj Gaikwad. This kind of viral news is typical of what we see during IPL, and the speculation keeps the excitement alive.
Personal take: why MS Dhoni's absence matters to me
Honestly, watching Chennai Super Kings without MS Dhoni feels like watching a movie without its lead actor. When I grew up, I used to imitate MS Dhoni's calm finish the way I finished my school exams slowly, with confidence. Seeing MS Dhoni out of the squad this season makes me wonder if Chennai Super Kings will be able to pull off those last‑minute finishes that we all love.
It also reminded me of the time I missed a big cricket match because of a minor injury. The feeling of sitting on the terrace, sipping chai, and hearing the crowd roar on TV, while not being able to join the excitement, is exactly what Chennai Super Kings fans must be feeling now.
What caught people's attention most was the fact that MS Dhoni has not yet signed off on travel plans. It adds a layer of mystery, and the speculation is already trending across India. In most cases, we see teams adapt quickly, but Chennai Super Kings have a unique chemistry that heavily relies on MS Dhoni's leadership.
Many people were surprised by the decision to keep MS Dhoni out of the travelling squad, especially because the team has already lost two away matches. The coaches are now forced to rethink strategies, and the entire fan base is waiting with bated breath for the upcoming Sunrisers Hyderabad clash.
What could the upcoming match mean for Chennai Super Kings?
If Chennai Super Kings manage to pull off a win against Sunrisers Hyderabad without MS Dhoni on the field, it could be a massive confidence boost. On the other hand, a loss could deepen the concerns about the squad's depth and the need for fresh talent.
In most cases, the performance of Sanju Samson as a wicket‑keeper‑batter will be under the microscope. If Sanju Samson can deliver a half‑century and guide the middle order, Chennai Super Kings might still have a fighting chance.
Meanwhile, the role of Dewald Brevis continues to be crucial. Dewald Brevis has recovered fully, and his aggressive batting could provide the fireworks needed to chase a big total.
Another interesting angle is the potential revival of Ayush Mhatre as an opener. If Ayush Mhatre gets the nod, the team might see a different opening partnership, which could surprise Sunrisers Hyderabad.
All these elements combined make the upcoming fixture a must‑watch for anyone following breaking news on IPL. The match will also add to the trending news India conversations across social platforms.
