Chennai Super Kings (CSK) suffered a major setback as their captain, Ruturaj Gaikwad, was ruled out of IPL 2025 due to a fractured elbow. The injury was confirmed through an MRI after an inconclusive X-ray. According to CSK coach Stephen Fleming, Gaikwad sustained the injury in a match against Rajasthan Royals on March 30, when a ball from Tushar Deshpande struck his right forearm.
Despite playing a few games with pain, including matches against Delhi Capitals and Punjab Kings, his condition worsened. The MRI revealed a fracture in the radial neck of his elbow, ending his IPL season prematurely. Fleming expressed his disappointment but praised Gaikwad’s determination to continue playing despite the injury.
MS Dhoni to Lead CSK Again
With Ruturaj Gaikwad ruled out, CSK has turned to their most experienced player, MS Dhoni, to take over the captaincy for the remainder of the season. Dhoni will lead the team starting with their upcoming match against Kolkata Knight Riders at Chepauk. Though jokingly referred to as an “uncapped player” by Fleming, Dhoni is a legendary figure in the IPL and in CSK’s history.
The 43-year-old had last captained the team in 2023, where he led CSK to their fifth IPL title. That victory came in a dramatic final against Gujarat Titans, which was played over two days due to rain delays at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. Under MS Dhoni’s leadership, CSK denied Gujarat their second consecutive title, after GT had won the IPL in their debut season in 2022.
Challenges Ahead for CSK
Gaikwad’s absence is more than just a leadership loss; it weakens CSK’s batting lineup significantly. The team now has to adjust its playing XI and rethink its overseas player combinations. CSK has had a poor start to the 2025 season, losing four out of their first five matches. This adds pressure on the team and especially on Dhoni, who returns as captain in a difficult phase.
Despite the tough situation, Dhoni’s experience and calm leadership offer hope to CSK fans. He has led CSK in over 220 matches and holds a winning percentage of 58.84 — the highest among IPL captains. Apart from Dhoni, only Suresh Raina, Ravindra Jadeja, and Gaikwad have ever captained CSK.
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