Chennai Super Kings (CSK) skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad was recently seen enjoying a game of padel in Chennai, alongside iconic cricketer MS Dhoni and popular musician Anirudh Ravichander. A video posted by 7Padel India on X captured the trio engaging in light-hearted banter while playing the sport.
Gaikwad’s appearance in the clip also hinted at his recovery, following the elbow injury that kept him out for most of the 2025 IPL season. Not long ago, Dhoni had shared an update on Gaikwad’s fitness, assuring that he was close to regaining full form and that the team’s batting concerns had eased. You can watch the video here:
Thala 🤝 Ani 🤝 Rutu
That was our opening night at 7Padel! 🥳#7Padel#7PadelIndia@anirudhofficial @Ruutu1331 @msdhoni pic.twitter.com/raVwepnwxQ— 7Padel_India (@7Padel_India) August 8, 2025
As previously reported, 7Padel India is MS Dhoni’s latest venture, offering multiple sports and wellness facilities in one location. The complex features three padel courts, a pickleball court, a swimming pool, a gym, a recovery room, a sauna, and a café. It is situated in Palavakkam, in South Chennai, roughly 20 kilometres from the city centre.
MS Dhoni Stepped In As CSK Captain During Gaikwad’s Absence In IPL 2025
MS Dhoni took over as captain of Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in IPL 2025 after Ruturaj Gaikwad was ruled out due to injury. Notably, Dhoni had stepped aside in the 2024 season to allow Gaikwad to lead the team. The former India captain had retired from international cricket in 2019.
Gaikwad played the first five matches of the 2025 season, scoring 122 runs at an average of 24.40. His highest score was 63, which came against the Rajasthan Royals in a losing cause. In Gaikwad’s absence due to injury, Dhoni led the team, but CSK had a disappointing season overall.
They finished at the bottom of the points table, winning only four out of 14 matches and losing the remaining ten.
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