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Chennai Super Kings will be without MS Dhoni for their away fixture against Delhi Capitals on May 6, with the former captain remaining in Chennai to continue rehabilitation for a calf injury. The development confirms that Dhoni has not yet attained match readiness, extending his absence from the playing XI this season.

Franchise officials, however, have not ruled out a return before the league stage concludes. “He should be available at some stage,” a senior team official said. CSK, currently sixth on the points table with four wins in nine matches, remain mathematically in contention for the playoffs, with five fixtures left to play.

The decision to keep Dhoni back reflects a measured assessment of workload and recovery timelines rather than an immediate availability push.

Dhoni’s absence from the travelling squad underlines a cautious approach by the franchise towards his recovery. The team’s schedule after the Delhi fixture includes a home game against Lucknow Super Giants on May 10, followed by an away match against Delhi Capitals in Lucknow on May 15.

Chennai then host Sunrisers Hyderabad on May 18 before concluding their league campaign against Gujarat Titans in Ahmedabad on May 21. The side requires at least four wins from these matches to strengthen its chances of finishing in the top four.

Dhoni has not featured in any game this season, with his last IPL appearance dating back to May 25, 2025, against Gujarat Titans. The current phase of rehabilitation remains ongoing, with no specific return date communicated.

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While Dhoni’s availability remains uncertain, his absence has coincided with an inconsistent campaign for Chennai. The team’s position outside the top four reflects a mixed run of results, leaving limited margin for further setbacks in the closing stretch.

Historically, Dhoni’s role within the franchise has been defined by sustained performance and leadership outcomes. He has led Chennai Super Kings to five IPL titles (2010, 2011, 2018, 2021, 2023) and guided them to 10 finals, alongside consistent playoff qualifications across seasons.

Across his CSK career, he has accumulated over 5,400 runs and registered more than 200 wicketkeeping dismissals, including over 180 in the IPL. Following the 2025 season, Dhoni had indicated he would assess his future based on fitness, and the franchise retained him for the 2026 season under the uncapped player category.