Will MS Dhoni Play in DC vs CSK IPL 2026 Match?

The Delhi Capitals (DC) host the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in a high-stakes DC vs CSK IPL 2026 match at the Arun Jaitley Stadium on Tuesday. Both sides are currently locked on 8 points, making this a 'must-win' for playoff qualification. DC, captained by Axar Patel, recently chased down 226 against Rajasthan, bolstered by KL Rahul and a fit-again Pathum Nissanka. Expect a spin-friendly deck where the battle between DC’s hitters and CSK’s disciplined bowling will decide the fate of this 2026 campaign. Will Rohit Sharma Play in MI vs LSG IPL 2026 Match?.

CSK enters following a dominant win over Mumbai, with Sanju Samson in peak form, under the leadership of Ruturaj Gaikwad. However, for fans, the availability of former captain MS Dhoni remains the top concern, given the wicket-keeper is yet to take the field for CSK this season following injury troubles. 

Will MS Dhoni Play in DC vs CSK IPL 2026 Match?

Unfortunately, Dhoni has been ruled out of the DC vs CSK IPL 2026. The veteran wicketkeeper-batter has not travelled with the squad to the capital, opting instead to remain at the franchise's home base to continue rehabilitation for a persistent injury.

Dhoni is currently recovering from a calf strain initially sustained during pre-season training. The injury was reportedly aggravated in mid-April, preventing him from featuring in any of Chennai's nine matches so far this season. IPL 2026: CSK All-Rounder Ramakrishna Ghosh Ruled Out Of Tournament Due To Injury.

While the rest of the Ruturaj Gaikwad-led squad arrived in New Delhi on Monday, Dhoni remained in Chennai to work with the team's medical staff. Team officials have confirmed that the 44-year-old has resumed light net sessions and is gradually increasing his running intensity, though he is not yet match-fit. 

A senior franchise official recently stated that while there is no fixed timeline, they expect him to be available ' at some stage' during the latter half of the tournament. In Dhoni's absence, Chennai Super Kings have experienced a mixed campaign, currently sitting sixth in the points table with four wins and five losses.  

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on May 04, 2026 04:24 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).