MS Dhoni to Lead CSK in IPL 2025 as Ruturaj Gaikwad is Ruled Out
Chennai Super Kings (CSK) have confirmed that MS Dhoni will take over as captain for the remainder of IPL 2025 after RuturajGaikwad was ruled out of the tournament due to an elbow fracture. The announcement was made by CSK coach Stephen Fleming on Thursday, ahead of their match against Kolkata Knight Riders in Chennai.
Gaikwad’s injury had been a concern prior to CSK’s last game against Punjab Kings, where he played despite reports suggesting he would sit out. However, he was ineffective, scoring just 1 run off 3 balls, and CSK suffered an 18-run defeat. The 28-year-old has endured a disappointing season, managing only 122 runs in five matches at an average of 24 and a strike rate of 150. His leadership has also come under scrutiny, with CSK languishing in 9th place on the points table with just one win.
Gaikwad’s absence adds to CSK’s woes, as their batting lineup has struggled throughout the tournament. Kiwi batter RachinRavindra is their top scorer with just 145 runs in five matches, and no CSK player features in the Orange Cap top 10. Replacing Gaikwad in the playing XI remains a challenge, with options like Rahul Tripathi and Deepak Hooda yet to find form.