MS Dhoni is Set to Lead CSK Again, Get the Full Details

The greatest breaking news in Indian cricket right now is that former India and Chennai Super Kings (CSK) skipper MS Dhoni is expected to captain the team once more when they visit the Delhi Capitals on Saturday, with Ruturaj Gaikwad uncertain due to injury.

Gaikwad sustained a knock to his exposed elbow against Rajasthan Royals (RR) in Guwahati last Sunday after stepping out to Tushar Deshpande and missing the ball in the second over of CSK’s failed Chased of 183.

After getting struck on the forearm last Saturday, Gaikwad underwent treatment on the field and continued to bat, recording his second half-century in three games this season. Gaikwad just got a ten-minute light session on Friday, throwing down outside the nets. If he is unable to participate, CSK will need to locate a replacement top-order hitter.

Mike Hussey’s Statement About MS Dhoni’s Return as Captain

“Yeah, we’re hoping he [Gaikwad] is going to try and have a bat today for training,” CSK’s batting coach Mike Hussey stated during a news conference on the eve of the match against DC. “And, yes, the elbow is still a little uncomfortable, but it is getting better every day. So we’re optimistic that he’ll be alright by tomorrow.

“I don’t think we’ve given the captaincy much attention. I haven’t given it much thought. I’m sure Stephen Fleming [CSK’s head coach] and Rutu have considered it. But we have a young player coming through. He is behind the stumps. Perhaps he can do an excellent job. I am not sure. He has some experience in the job, so he may be able to handle it. But I’m not sure.

MS Dhoni, 43, is performing at a reduced capacity, according to Fleming, who claims his knees prevent him from batting for lengthy periods of time. He has been CSK’s captain since their establishment in 2008, with the exception of two years of suspension and a few matches in 2022 when they attempted to hand over the reigns to Ravindra Jadeja but failed.

MS Dhoni last guided his club to the IPL final in 2023. CSK won that game, earning their sixth IPL title. However, when the next season began, they named Gaikwad as captain. CSK finished sixth in 2024 and missed the playoffs based on net run rate.