Chennai Super Kings (CSK) who recently lost their vice-captain Suresh Raina for the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 due to personal reasons, could suffer another blow if veteran off-spinner Harbhajan Singh decides to not travel to UAE for the 13th edition of the tournament.

As per a report, Harbhajan is yet to formally inform the franchise about his availability but the CSK team management has begun to prepare for his absence. He had skipped the five-day training camp in Chennai and is yet to confirm his travel plans.

"He has not sent in any official communication and that is expected by today evening or tomorrow. But the team management has been told to prepare for the scenario wherein they may miss his services," a source told ANI.

CSK's campaign has not started on a good note as 13 of their team personnel tested positive for COVID-19 after arriving in Dubai, which included two players, fast bowler Deepak Chahar and batsman Ruturaj Gaikwad. Those infected by the virus have been isolated and will be tested again after the two-week mandatory quarantine.

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The team is yet to start their practice sessions in Dubai as the players had to undergo another week of isolation and two rounds of tests once the 13 members tested positive. Every other member of the touring party tested negative in the first round and have been tested again on Thursday.

"Tests were done today. Results will come late night or tomorrow morning," a CSK official told PTI. If all tests return negative, the team will be allowed to practice from Friday.

CSK might feature in the season opener against defending champions Mumbai Indians on September 19. The IPL schedule is expected to be released in a day or two.

(With PTI/ANI inputs)