In a dramatic twist to Chennai Super Kings’ (CSK) faltering IPL 2025 campaign, franchise legend MS Dhoni has been reinstated as captain following the unfortunate exit of Ruturaj Gaikwad due to an elbow fracture.
The injury, sustained earlier in the season, was confirmed to have worsened, forcing Gaikwad out of action and leaving the leadership mantle back in the hands of the 43-year-old Dhoni.
Table of Contents
Gaikwad’s Brave Fight Ends in Pain
The injury to Gaikwad traces back to March 30, during CSK’s clash against Rajasthan Royals in Guwahati. The opener was struck on his bare elbow while attempting to charge down the track against Tushar Deshpande. Despite evident discomfort, Gaikwad showed remarkable grit, going on to score 63 in that fixture. He then featured in two more encounters—against Delhi Capitals and Punjab Kings—but failed to leave a significant impact, scoring just 5 and 1 respectively.
Despite the drop in numbers, Gaikwad remained CSK’s second-highest run-scorer with 122 runs at a brisk strike rate of 150.61. His early season form mirrored his status from 2024, where he was the team’s leading run machine.
Medical Scans Confirm the Worst
Speaking ahead of CSK’s home match against Kolkata Knight Riders, head coach Stephen Fleming detailed the extent of Gaikwad’s injury. “He [Gaikwad] got hit in Guwahati. He’s been operating with an amount of pain,” Fleming said in Chennai. “We got an X-ray, which was inconclusive, and we had an MRI, which revealed a fracture in his elbow, in the radial neck.”
“So we’re disappointed and feel for him. We appreciate the efforts that he’s gone to in terms of trying to play, but unfortunately, he’d be out of the tournament from now.”
Gaikwad’s absence comes at a critical juncture for CSK, who currently languish ninth in the table, having lost four out of their opening five games.
MS Dhoni: The Uncapped Icon Returns
With the team searching for direction and stability, CSK have turned to the most experienced figure in their ranks. Dhoni, who captained the side from its inception in 2008 until last season, will once again don the skipper’s hat. “We have an uncapped player, MS Dhoni, who will take over as captain for the remainder of the IPL,” Fleming quipped, tongue-in-cheek, acknowledging the legendary figure’s vast experience.
Dhoni’s return to the helm is hardly surprising. His history with the franchise is unparalleled—five IPL championships, two Champions League titles, and countless match-winning moments etched in the memories of fans. While he had stepped aside for Gaikwad at the beginning of this season after also handing over duties to Ravindra Jadeja briefly in 2022, Dhoni remains the team’s heartbeat both on and off the field. “He [Dhoni] had no hesitation to step up and help guide us out of this if we can,” Fleming stated. “So that was never a doubt.”
A Defining Phase Awaits CSK
Chennai’s immediate focus will be on the upcoming contest against KKR at home, followed by crucial away fixtures against Lucknow Super Giants on April 14 and Mumbai Indians on April 20. With their playoff hopes hanging by a thread, the team needs a sharp turnaround in form—and quickly.
Fleming hinted at internal solutions to bolster the squad during Gaikwad’s absence, but remained open to strategic reinforcements. “We’ll look at replacements. We’ve got some good players in the squad that have been with us a while, so we’ll look from within first. But yeah, there is an opportunity to see how we can enhance the squad probably moving forward into subsequent years.”
Overall, MS Dhoni has led Chennai Super Kings in 235 of their 268 matches, steering the franchise to unparalleled consistency and success. Under his captaincy, CSK secured five IPL titles (2010, 2011, 2018, 2021, and 2023) along with two Champions League T20 trophies. Impressively, the team has only failed to make the top four in two IPL seasons—2020 and 2022—and has reached the final an incredible 10 times, including a streak of four consecutive appearances from 2010 to 2013.
FAQs
Why is Ruturaj Gaikwad not playing in IPL 2025?
Ruturaj Gaikwad has been ruled out of IPL 2025 due to a fractured elbow sustained during CSK’s match against Rajasthan Royals on March 30.
Who is the new captain of Chennai Super Kings in IPL 2025?
MS Dhoni has taken over as CSK captain for the rest of IPL 2025 after Ruturaj Gaikwad’s injury.
When did Ruturaj Gaikwad get injured in IPL 2025?
Gaikwad was hit on his elbow while facing Tushar Deshpande during CSK’s match against Rajasthan Royals in Guwahati on March 30.
How did MS Dhoni react to resuming CSK captaincy?
According to head coach Stephen Fleming, Dhoni had “no hesitation” in stepping up to lead the team again.
What is CSK’s position in the IPL 2025 points table after five matches?
Chennai Super Kings are currently placed ninth, having lost four out of their first five games.
