CSK Makes History: First Match Without Both Dhoni and Raina in 6554 Days

Chennai Super Kings stepped onto the field against Rajasthan Royals at Barsapara Stadium in Guwahati on March 30, 2026, marking a watershed moment in IPL history. For the first time in 6554 days — since their very first match on April 19, 2008 — CSK took the field without either MS Dhoni or Suresh Raina in their playing XI. Ruturaj Gaikwad captained the side in Dhoni’s absence, the legendary wicketkeeper sitting out with a knee injury.

A New-Look CSK Takes Shape

The lineup reflected a bold new chapter for the Chennai franchise. Sanju Samson, acquired via a trade from Rajasthan Royals ahead of IPL 2026, made his debut for CSK and took over wicketkeeping duties from Dhoni. Alongside him, Matthew Short, Karthik Sharma, Sarfaraz Khan, and Matt Henry also received their first caps for the Men in Yellow, signalling a significant generational shift.

A Difficult Road Without Their Talisman

CSK’s record without Dhoni makes for sobering reading. In five previous appearances without him, the team won just once, losing the other four. In each of those games, Suresh Raina had led the side — an option no longer available after his departure following the 2021 season. This contest against Rajasthan Royals thus represented uncharted territory for one of the IPL’s most storied franchises.

Whether Gaikwad’s leadership can fill the enormous void left by two of CSK’s greatest icons remains the defining question of their 2026 campaign.