Dhoni's Absence Looms as CSK Seek Playoff Push Without Their Icon

Key facts

• MS Dhoni has not travelled to Delhi for CSK's match against Delhi Capitals on May 6.
• Dhoni is undergoing rehabilitation for a calf injury in Chennai.
• CSK have five league matches remaining after the Delhi fixture.
• Dhoni's last IPL appearance was on May 25, 2025, against Gujarat Titans.
• CSK are sixth in the points table with four wins from nine games.
• Ruturaj Gaikwad has scored two half-centuries this season.
• Anshul Kamboj is CSK's joint highest wicket-taker this season.

Dhoni Stays Behind as CSK Arrive in Delhi

Chennai Super Kings arrived at the Feroz Shah Kotla in Delhi on Monday afternoon under a searing sun, but without the figure thousands of fans had hoped to see. MS Dhoni, the former captain and enduring symbol of the franchise, remained in Chennai, continuing his rehabilitation from a calf injury that has kept him out of action all season. A senior team official confirmed that Dhoni is still not match-ready, though the franchise has not ruled out his participation in the remaining games. “He should be available at some stage,” the official said. With five matches left in the league phase, the window for his return is narrowing.

A Season Without Dhoni

Dhoni has not played a single game in the current IPL season. His last appearance in the tournament was nearly a year ago, on May 25, 2025, against Gujarat Titans. The calf injury has sidelined him from the outset, forcing Chennai to adapt to life without their iconic leader. Bowling coach Eric Simons provided an update on Dhoni's recovery, stating, “He's steadily improving and will be ready when he's ready.” The comment underscores the uncertainty surrounding the 43-year-old's return, even as the team fights for a playoff berth.

Gaikwad's Resurgence Anchors Chennai's Campaign

In Dhoni's absence, captain Ruturaj Gaikwad has begun to find his form. Gaikwad has registered two half-centuries this season, and his approach has drawn praise from the coaching staff. Bowling coach Eric Simons described Gaikwad as “a surgeon in this world of chaos batting,” highlighting his ability to score rapidly without fanfare. Simons dismissed any link between Gaikwad's batting returns and the pressures of captaincy. “He's always been very clear around the leadership,” Simons said. “The leadership has always been there — it's just good that he's now scoring runs.” Gaikwad's method, Simons argued, is defined by his capacity to battle through difficult conditions, a hallmark of a quality batsman.

Kamboj Emerges as Bowling Mainstay

While Dhoni's absence has been keenly felt, the emergence of Anshul Kamboj has provided a boost. Kamboj has become CSK's joint highest wicket-taker this season, a reflection of his professionalism and tactical clarity. Simons praised the young bowler's dedication and strategic approach, which have allowed him to maintain a competitive edge. Kamboj's performances have been a bright spot in a season where Chennai's bowling has faced challenges, and his growth could be crucial in the run-in to the playoffs.

Playoff Race Hinges on Remaining Fixtures

Chennai Super Kings currently sit sixth in the points table with four wins from nine matches, level on points with Delhi Capitals. To secure a top-four finish, they likely need at least four victories from their remaining five games. Their schedule includes home and away matches against Lucknow Super Giants and Delhi Capitals, a home fixture against Sunrisers Hyderabad on May 18, and a final league match against Gujarat Titans in Ahmedabad on May 21. Simons expressed confidence in the team's ability, stating, “We still have our destiny in our own hands. When we play well, we look really unbeatable.”

Rohit Sharma's Return Uncertain for Mumbai Indians

Meanwhile, another IPL icon, Rohit Sharma, faces uncertainty over his availability for Mumbai Indians. Rohit has been out of action since April 12 due to a hamstring injury, missing five games — four of which Mumbai lost. He batted for nearly an hour at the Wankhede Stadium on Sunday evening, undergoing fitness drills with head coach Mahela Jayawardene. The team management has left the decision to Rohit on whether to play the home game against Lucknow Super Giants on Monday night. Given the importance of the fixture, Rohit may opt to return, but the final call rests with him.

Chennai's Identity Takes Shape Without Dhoni

Simons believes that Chennai are beginning to forge a new identity this season, one that does not solely rely on Dhoni's presence. “Teams need an identity, and sometimes teams get an identity really quickly,” he said. “We have a sense of our identity now... the parts have fallen together.” That identity will be tested in the coming weeks. As the Super Kings left Chennai without their talisman, the question of whether they can mount a serious playoff challenge without him remains open. For now, the focus is on the next match — and on the steady improvement of a captain and a team learning to stand on their own.

The bottom line

• MS Dhoni has not played any IPL match this season due to a calf injury and remains in Chennai for rehabilitation.
• Chennai Super Kings have five league matches left and need at least four wins to secure a playoff spot.
• Captain Ruturaj Gaikwad has scored two half-centuries and is being praised for his batting under pressure.
• Anshul Kamboj has emerged as CSK's joint highest wicket-taker, providing a boost to the bowling attack.
• Rohit Sharma's return for Mumbai Indians is uncertain as he recovers from a hamstring injury.
• CSK's bowling coach Eric Simons expressed confidence in the team's ability to beat any opponent if they play to their strengths.