New Delhi – MS Dhoni returns as CSK captain after a major setback hit Chennai Super Kings, with current skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad ruled out of the remainder of IPL 2025 due to a fractured elbow. The announcement was made on Thursday by head coach Stephen Fleming, who confirmed that the veteran will lead the side once again.
“Ruturaj Gaikwad has a fracture on his elbow and is ruled out of the IPL,” said Fleming.
“MS Dhoni will take over as captain for the remainder of the tournament.”
Gaikwad’s injury comes at a crucial point in the season, as CSK battles for a spot in the playoffs. The 27-year-old opener had been groomed as Dhoni’s long-term successor and was leading the side for the second consecutive season.
🚨 OFFICIAL STATEMENT 🚨
Ruturaj Gaikwad ruled out of the season due to a hairline fracture of the elbow.
MS DHONI TO LEAD. 🦁
GET WELL SOON, RUTU ! ✨ 💛#WhistlePodu #Yellove🦁💛 pic.twitter.com/U0NsVhKlny
— Chennai Super Kings (@ChennaiIPL) April 10, 2025
Dhoni Steps Up Once Again
With the team hit by Gaikwad’s unavailability, CSK has turned to its most trusted leader. MS Dhoni, who had stepped down from captaincy to allow a smooth leadership transition, has agreed to lead the side once again.
“Dhoni was ready to take over. He understood where it was coming from,” Fleming said.
“As far as replacements go, we have a few options in the squad. We haven’t zeroed in on anyone yet.”
Dhoni, 43, remains one of the most successful captains in IPL history, having led CSK to five titles – in 2010, 2011, 2018, 2021, and 2023. His calm leadership and tactical brilliance are seen as vital assets as CSK navigates through a tough mid-season phase.
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CSK’s Road Ahead
CSK has had a mixed start to their IPL 2025 campaign and now faces an uphill battle without one of their key batters. With no official word yet on a replacement for Gaikwad, all eyes will be on how the team reworks its playing XI.
Under Dhoni’s captaincy, the Super Kings will be hoping for a resurgence. His return to leadership has already sparked excitement among fans and could provide the emotional lift CSK needs heading into the business end of the tournament.
As the IPL season heats up, Dhoni’s second innings as CSK captain could well be the defining story of 2025.
