MS Dhoni almost helped Chennai Super Kings win their previous match against the Kings XI Punjab in Match 12 of IPL 2018 last Sunday despite batting with a back injury. His unbeaten 79* was to no avail as CSK fell short of the target 4 runs with MS Dhoni at the wicket but was down for the count.

CSK is already battling with injury issues including the likes of Suresh Raina Faf du Plessis. MS Dhoni's back injury has just piled up on the list. 

As per reports, MS Dhoni might miss CSK's next game against Rajasthan Royals on Friday. MS Dhoni skipped the practice session as well but Suresh Raina who missed the match against Punjab was seen training hard. Suresh Raina by all probability will return for CSK and will lead the side in MS Dhoni's absence. 

However, MS Dhoni might still play the contest but will not keep if close CSK sources are to be believed. Ambati Rayudu will don the gloves for CSK  as MS Dhoni will be seen fielding normally. 

There hasn't been much chatter from the CSK tank on Dhoni's availability for the game against the Royals, although he was seen taking part in the net session on Thursday, along with a seemingly match-fit Suresh Raina. 

The CSK side are already reeling from the absence of Kedar Jadhav, who was ruled out after playing the first game. Murali Vijay had to miss a couple of games as well.

The Cauvery water controversy between the two South Indian states of Karnataka and Tamil Nadu also saw Chepauk losing out to stage the rest of the home matches for the season. Pune now will host CSK's remaining homes games this year.