‘I Was Shocked’ – Ruturaj Gaikwad Opens Up on Dhoni’s Sudden CSK Captaincy Call In IPL

Prepend to the Content

MS Dhoni is not just a name for Chennai Super Kings (CSK) fans; he is an emotion. However, when he decided to step down as captain and handed over the leadership to Ruturaj Gaikwad, it was a moment of surprise for many. Gaikwad has now revealed how Dhoni passed him the captaincy just a week before IPL 2024 began.

MS Dhoni’s Unexpected Decision

Ruturaj Gaikwad, who has been a key player for CSK since 2018, shared his experience during a chat on ‘Power-Play’ on JioHotstar. He recalled how Dhoni approached him and gave him the big responsibility.

“Just a week before the tournament, Dhoni bhai came to me and said, ‘I’m not leading this year—you are.’ I was shocked and asked, ‘From the first game? Are you sure?’ With only a few days left, it felt overwhelming,” Gaikwad shared.

Despite the pressure, Dhoni gave him full freedom to make decisions. “He told me, ‘This is your team now. You decide everything. I won’t interfere unless you need help with field placements. Even then, it’s your call.’ That trust meant a lot to me,” Gaikwad added.

CSK’s Performance Under Gaikwad

Under Gaikwad’s captaincy, CSK finished fifth in IPL 2024, narrowly missing the playoffs. Though the team could not qualify, Dhoni’s guidance remained crucial. He continued playing as a wicketkeeper-batter, supporting the team without interfering in leadership decisions.

IPL 2025 – A New Challenge

As CSK prepares for IPL 2025, Gaikwad will once again lead the team. Their first match is against Mumbai Indians on March 23, followed by a game against Royal Challengers Bengaluru on March 28 at MA Chidambaram Stadium. With Dhoni still in the squad, his experience will continue to guide the young captain as CSK aims for another strong season.

Story First Published at www.probatsman.com on 05 March 2025

More Stories

• NZ vs SA: Why Devon Conway Is Not Playing Today’s Champions Trophy Semifinal Match?
• “Not Rohit, but KL Rahul is the Most Selfless Cricketer,” Says Indian Legend
• Steve Smith Retires from ODI Cricket After Champions Trophy Exit
• SA vs NZ Match Prediction: Who Will Win Today’s 2nd Semi-Final of ICC Champions Trophy 2025 – South Africa vs New Zealand?
• SA vs NZ Dream11 Prediction, Fantasy Cricket Tips, Playing XI, Pitch Report, Player Stats & Injury Updates For 2nd Semi-Final of ICC Champions Trophy 2025

Read Original Content: ‘I Was Shocked’ – Ruturaj Gaikwad Opens Up on Dhoni’s Sudden CSK Captaincy Call In IPL

ProBatsman