IPL 2026: Why Heinrich Klaasen Believes CSK Remain Strong Even Without MS Dhoni

New Delhi, April 7: Chennai Super Kings may be without MS Dhoni on the field, but their aura and strength remain intact, according to Sunrisers Hyderabad batter Heinrich Klaasen.

As CSK continue their IPL 2026 campaign without their talismanic leader - who is recovering from a calf strain-questions have been raised about the impact of his absence. However, Klaasen believes the five-time champions are still a formidable unit.

CSK Still a 'Very Strong Side'

"CSK has got an incredible IPL record. Even with Dhoni not being there, they are not much of a lesser side. They are a very strong team," Klaasen said.

The South African added that Chennai's strength lies in their overall structure rather than dependence on one individual, even if that individual is Dhoni.

"It's not going to be an easy game. They are always a challenging side," he noted.

Dhoni's Absence Felt More in Leadership

While Klaasen downplayed Dhoni's absence as a wicketkeeper-batter, he acknowledged the void in leadership.

"Dhoni not being there doesn't make much of a difference as a player. It's more about his leadership," he explained.

In recent seasons, Dhoni's role with the bat has been limited to short cameos, often coming in for just a few deliveries at the back end of innings. However, his influence as a tactician and mentor remains unmatched.

"There might be a slightly quieter crowd without him, but the team remains strong," Klaasen added.

Batting Depth Keeps CSK Competitive

Klaasen pointed out that CSK's batting lineup continues to be one of their biggest strengths.

"Shivam Dube is in good form, and their openers Sanju Samson and Ruturaj Gaikwad are fantastic," he said, highlighting the depth that makes CSK a consistent threat.

He stressed that opposition teams will need to be disciplined to contain them.

"We just need to squeeze them a bit more and build pressure with dot balls," he added.

SRH's Own Challenges

While discussing CSK, Klaasen also reflected on Sunrisers Hyderabad's own campaign, which has seen mixed results so far.

"Our batting has been good, but we probably left 40 runs out there across games. Fielding has also been below par," he admitted.

Despite early setbacks, Klaasen remains optimistic that SRH will improve across departments as the tournament progresses.

A Big Clash Awaits

SRH are set to face CSK on April 18 before the return fixture in Chennai on May 18, setting up an intriguing contest between a team seeking momentum and a side known for consistency.

Even without Dhoni on the field, Klaasen's words underline a familiar truth in IPL cricket-write off Chennai Super Kings at your own risk.