“Thala” Returns: MS Dhoni to Lead CSK As Ruturaj Gaikwad Ruled Out of IPL 2025

MS Dhoni to Lead CSK: The injury occurred when Gaikwad was struck by a short ball from Jofra Archer during a recent match.

MS Dhoni is back as the captain of Chennai Super Kings (CSK) for the remainder of the IPL 2025 season. The veteran wicketkeeper-batter takes charge after current skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad was ruled out of the tournament due to a hairline fracture on his elbow.

The injury occurred when Gaikwad was struck by a short ball from Jofra Archer during a recent match.

CSK head coach Stephen Fleming confirmed the news on Thursday, stating, “Ruturaj Gaikwad ruled out of IPL with a fracture on the elbow. MS Dhoni to take over as captain.” The franchise followed with an official statement, declaring Dhoni’s return to leadership, starting with Friday’s clash against Kolkata Knight Riders in Chennai.

Gaikwad’s injury comes as a massive setback for CSK, who have endured a dismal start to IPL 2025. With just one win from five games, the team sits ninth in the 10-team standings. Dhoni, who led CSK to five IPL titles, now faces the enormous challenge of reviving the team’s fortunes midway through a struggling campaign.

At 43, Dhoni is no stranger to pressure. He had stepped down as CSK skipper ahead of IPL 2024, passing the baton to the calm and composed Ruturaj Gaikwad. Reflecting on the transition, Dhoni shared, “Ruturaj has been part of us for quite some time. His temperament is very good. Before the season, I told him, ‘If I give you advice, it doesn’t mean you have to follow it.’”

Dhoni dismissed speculation that he had been pulling the strings from the background. “He was making 99 percent of the decisions — from bowling changes to field placements. I was just helping him out. He did a brilliant job of handling the players,” he said.

Discussing the evolution of T20 cricket, Dhoni acknowledged how much the game has changed. “Batsmen today are more aggressive and innovative. They’re playing reverse scoops, sweeps, even against pacers. I’m no different — I need to adapt to stay relevant.”

He also noted how playing conditions have improved over the years. “In 2008, wickets had more turn and were two-paced. Now, India’s pitches are more batter-friendly. The game has changed, and so must we.”

As Dhoni returns to the helm, fans will hope his legendary leadership can spark a turnaround for the Super Kings and reignite their 2025 campaign.

Also Read: KL Rahul enters top 10 IPL run-getters list, continues impressive chasing run

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