No Dhoni as CSK Face KKR at Chepauk
According to reports, there is no chance of MS Dhoni featuring tonight as Chennai Super Kings host Kolkata Knight Riders in a high-stakes IPL 2026 clash at the MA Chidambaram Stadium.
Both sides sit at the bottom of the table, making this a direct fight to stay in the competition. CSK come into the match with some momentum after ending a three-game losing run with a 23-run win over Delhi Capitals. That result has given them a chance to reset their campaign.
There is unlikely to be any change in the CSK playing XI. Ruturaj Gaikwad is expected to continue opening alongside Sanju Samson, while Dewald Brevis holds his place at number four. The bowling unit is also set to remain unchanged.
Form Returns but Pressure Remains
CSK’s last outing showed signs of balance. Samson’s unbeaten 115 set the platform, with Ayush Mhatre adding a quick 59 to push the total. It was the kind of batting effort they had been missing earlier in the season.
With the ball, Jamie Overton delivered 4 for 18, using pace and hard lengths to exploit conditions at Chepauk. That shift away from relying only on spin could be key again.
The question now is simple. Can CSK build on that win, or was it just a one-off performance?
KKR, still without a win, face a similar situation. Another defeat will leave them with little margin going forward.