Royal Challengers Bengaluru vs Chennai Super Kings, IPL 2026: The much-anticipated reunion between MS Dhoni and Virat Kohli will not take place during the Indian Premier League 2026 match between Chennai Super Kings and Royal Challengers Bengaluru on April 5. Chennai Super Kings said Saturday that Dhoni is dealing with a calf strain and is undergoing rehabilitation. The franchise added that he is likely to miss the first two weeks of the tournament. “MS Dhoni is currently undergoing rehabilitation for a calf strain. As a result, he is likely to miss the first two weeks of the TATA IPL 2026. Get well soon, Thala,” the franchise said in a statement on X, formerly known as Twitter.

Chennai is scheduled to open its campaign against Rajasthan in Guwahati on March 30, followed by matches against Punjab Kings on April 3, Royal Challengers Bengaluru on April 5 and Delhi Capitals on April 11. Even with a quick recovery, Dhoni is likely to miss at least the first four matches. As a result, he will miss the high-profile CSK vs RCB fixture at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium on April 5.

The development comes as a setback for fans who were awaiting the on-field reunion of ‘Mahirat’. However, fans may still get a chance to see Dhoni and Kohli share the field later in the season, but only if both teams advance to the playoffs, as there are no further league-stage meetings scheduled after April 5.

Whether Dhoni will attend CSK matches at the venues during his recovery period is still unclear as the franchise has not yet provided any confirmation on the matter.

Sanju Samson is expected to take over wicketkeeping duties in Dhoni’s absence.