EXPLAINED| Why CSK Players Are Wearing Black Armbands In IPL 2026 Match Against Mumbai Indians

Chennai Super Kings and Mumbai Indians renew their rivalry in an IPL 2026 game on Thursday at Wankhede Stadium. The CSK players donned black armbands in the match to pay a tribute to pacer Mukesh Choudhary's mother, who recently passed away after a long battle with illness. CSK are currently 8th in the IPL table, while MI are just one spot above them.

CSK posted a condolence message on their official X handle to pay their respect to Mukesh's mother. “The CSK family mourns the passing of Mukesh Choudhary’s mother. We stand with Mukesh and his family, keeping them in our thoughts and prayers during this incredibly difficult time."

Mumbai Indians captain Hardik Pandya won the toss and decided to bat first at Wankhede.

Both MS Dhoni And Rohit Sharma Missed Out

Both Rohit Sharma and MS Dhoni missed this high-voltage clash as they continue to recover from injuries. There was optimism after Dhoni was seen donning his wiket keeping gloves. But the MI clash proved to be too soon for the 44 year old and he is now eyeing to return in the Gujarat Titans clash.

Rohit has now missed three games in a row after sustaining a hamstring injury against Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) on April 12.

He scored 19 runs off 13 balls at a strike rate of 146.15 against the Bengaluru-based franchise, hitting two fours and one six. Before the start of the sixth over, the physio came onto the field to provide treatment. However, Rohit continued to experience discomfort and eventually had to walk off.

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