New Delhi
Cricket fans were shocked as Chennai Super Kings confirmed that legend MS Dhoni will miss the first two weeks of IPL 2026. Dhoni is currently sidelined with a calf strain, leaving a massive hole in the team’s lineup just as the new season kicks off.
In response, former CSK star Ravichandran Ashwin has shared his “dream XI” to help the team bounce back from their disappointing last-place finish in 2025. With Dhoni out, Ashwin has picked Sanju Samson to take over the wicketkeeping gloves and open the batting alongside captain Ruturaj Gaikwad. This bold move aims to give the five-time champions a flying start at the top of the order.
Ashwin’s middle order is packed with young power, featuring Urvil Patel and “Baby AB” Dewald Brevis, followed by the hard-hitting Shivam Dube. For the tricky number six spot, Ashwin is torn between the experienced Sarfaraz Khan and rising star Ayush Mhatre. He also highlighted Kartik Sharma as a key player for the lower order.
To fix the bowling, Ashwin has turned to international talent, selecting spinners Akeal Hosein and Noor Ahmad to lead the slow-bowling attack. The pace department will rely on the speed of Matt Henry and Khaleel Ahmed. With CSK set to face Rajasthan Royals on March 30, Ashwin believes this balanced squad is their best shot at redemption. All eyes are now on Gaikwad to see if he can lead this new-look team to victory.
