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As the fever for IPL 2026 grips cricket fans worldwide, some unsettling news has emerged from the team camps. Several high-profile players, including legendary MS Dhoni, Sunrisers Hyderabad skipper Pat Cummins, and KKR’s pace spearhead Mitchell Starc, are set to miss the initial phase of the tournament due to various injury concerns and personal commitments.
The Dhoni Mystery and CSK’s Dilemma Chennai Super Kings (CSK) fans were dealt a heavy blow with reports suggesting that MS Dhoni might sit out the first few games. Sources indicate a recurring knee niggle is the primary reason. While Ruturaj Gaikwad continues to lead, Dhoni’s absence on the field and behind the stumps leaves a massive void in the yellow army’s strategy.
SRH and KKR Face Pace Battery Crisis Sunrisers Hyderabad will have to start their campaign without their charismatic leader Pat Cummins, who is managing his workload following a hectic international schedule. On the other hand, Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) will miss the services of Mitchell Starc, the most expensive player in IPL history, who is reportedly nursing a minor hamstring strain.
Pathirana and Other International Absentees Sri Lankan speedster Matheesha Pathirana is also likely to miss the early matches for CSK due to national duty and fitness protocols. Similarly, several South African and Australian stars might arrive late depending on their respective bilateral series, forcing franchises to test their bench strength right from the start.
Impact on Points Table With key match-winners missing, the early dynamics of the IPL 2026 points table could see some unexpected shifts. Teams like Mumbai Indians and Gujarat Titans, who currently boast a relatively fit squad, will look to capitalize on this opportunity and secure an early lead in the race for the playoffs.
Read More: IPL 2026: MI vs DC Match 8 Preview Mumbai’s Power Hitters Face Delhi’s Bowling Litmus Test
