‘Dhoni’s absence doesn’t make much difference’: SRH star’s candid take on CSK
Sunrisers Hyderabad batter Heinrich Klaasen believes Chennai Super Kings remain a formidable force despite the absence of MS Dhoni as a player. Klaasen suggested Dhoni's impact is more in leadership than his limited batting contributions, emphasising CSK's overall strength. He expressed confidence in SRH's ability to perform despite a slow start to IPL 2026.
NEW DELHI: Sunrisers Hyderabad batter Heinrich Klaasen has made a striking assessment of Chennai Super Kings, stating that the absence of their charismatic former skipper MS Dhoni “doesn’t really make much of a difference” to the five-time champions in IPL 2026. Speaking after Sunrisers Hyderabad’s mixed start to the season, Klaasen downplayed the impact of Dhoni’s absence as a player, suggesting that CSK’s strength lies beyond one individual. “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 side. It’s not going to be an easy game,” Klaasen told the JioStar Press Room.
‘Impact more in leadership than batting’ While acknowledging Dhoni’s stature, Klaasen emphasised that the veteran’s absence is felt more in leadership than in his on-field contributions with the bat. “Dhoni not being there doesn’t really make much of a difference. It is more about other guys.
I don’t think his absence will make such a big impact except for his leadership,” he noted. The South African also pointed out that Dhoni’s recent batting roles have been limited. “He has been coming to bat for just 5-10 balls in the last few years,” Klaasen added, underlining why CSK remain competitive even without their iconic finisher.