The Chennai Super Kings are facing a new challenge as they will be missing MS Dhoni for the first two weeks of the IPL 2026 due to a calf injury.
Due to his sideline, CSK needs to re-strategise their playing 11 for the initial games. Despite Sanju Samson being set to take over wicketkeeper duties, with Karthik Sharma and Urvil Patel as backup options.
In the middle order, Shivam Dube and Sarfaraz Khan are expected to take over stabilising roles; there is a void for the finisher’s role.
CSK are unlikely to rely on a single replacement, instead distributing responsibilities across multiple players.
Ahead of their opener match, the shift highlights the team’s depth and adaptability, making their replacement approach a key factor in determining their early-season performance in IPL 2026.
MS Dhoni has been phenomenal in the CSK franchise. Over the years, he was the primary wicketkeeper and finisher. With MS Dhoni in his final chapter in the playing career, the franchise will be aiming for a long-term successor option.
Sanju Samson is the most direct replacement for MS Dhoni, expected to take over wicketkeeping duties while offering flexibility in the batting order with his experience and consistent IPL performance.
Karthik Sharma provides a specialist wicketkeeping alternative, giving CSK the option to test a young, aggressive player in high-pressure match situations.
Urvil Patel brings a high strike rate and attacking mindset, making him a strong backup option who can replace MS Dhoni’s impact with aggressive intent in short bursts.
Chennai Super Kings will play their opener match against Rajasthan Royals on March 30 at Barsapara Stadium, Guwahati.
Listed below are a list of possible replacements for MS Dhoni in the CSK’s playing 11 for IPL 2026.
Kartik Sharma
Kartik Sharma, who joined CSK for INR 14.20 crore, is set to feature in CSK’s playing 11. The young cricketer is considered a replacement for MS Dhoni. But he is yet to make his debut and show intent before taking over the role.
He could come in as the finisher, or could come up even higher with Shivam Dube slotting in as the finisher.
Urvil Patel
Urvil Patel, who established himself as the big hitter during the IPL 2025 season, has no role in the top order and now has a chance to play at No.6 or 7. He is in good form during the warm-up games and could consider giving him a challenge.
If he does well, it would make a positive impact during the CSK’s ongoing title hunt. CSK will want the Gujarat cricketer to do well in this regard for the side.
Sarfaraz Khan
The Mumbai batter Sarfaraz Khan would prefer a role in the top order. He is good against spin, and hence, that would be more suitable for him.
With Dewald Brevis being ruled out for the first few games. The role could be clear for Sarfaraz Khan. He could operate in the middle overs. However, he can retain the spot when the other players return from their injury lay-offs.
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