In a major development that has reshaped Chennai Super Kings' (CSK) campaign for IPL 2025, captain Ruturaj Gaikwad has been officially ruled out for the remainder of the season due to a hairline fracture in his elbow. The news was confirmed by CSK head coach Stephen Fleming during a press conference ahead of their high-stakes clash against Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) on Friday, April 11. In a dramatic twist that has both stunned and excited fans, none other than the iconic MS Dhoni will take over the reins of captaincy for the remainder of the tournament.
The franchise confirmed the news through an emotional post on X, saying, “Ruturaj Gaikwad ruled out of the season due to a hairline fracture of the elbow. MS DHONI TO LEAD. GET WELL SOON, RUTU!” The post was met with an outpouring of support from fans for Gaikwad and thunderous celebration over Dhoni’s return as captain.
Gaikwad had taken a blow on his right forearm during CSK’s match against Rajasthan Royals in Guwahati, and although he did take the field for the subsequent game against Punjab Kings—where CSK suffered an 18-run loss—the extent of his injury wasn't initially known. “He got hit in Guwahati. He’s been operating with an amount of pain. We got an X-ray, which was inconclusive, and we had an MRI, which revealed a fracture in his elbow, in the radial neck,” Fleming revealed. “We’re disappointed and feel for him. He gave it everything to stay on the field, but unfortunately, he’s out for the rest of the season.”
Fleming, with a touch of dry humor, added, “We have an uncapped player, MS Dhoni, who will take over as captain for the remainder of the IPL.” The remark was met with laughter and applause at the press conference, as the announcement brought a mix of nostalgia and hope for CSK's fans.
This shift in leadership comes at a pivotal time for the Super Kings, who are currently struggling with form and momentum. With four consecutive losses and just one win from five matches, they are languishing at ninth place on the points table. Gaikwad's captaincy debut had already been under pressure following a lackluster 2024 season where CSK failed to make it to the playoffs. His brief stint as captain, though filled with potential, was marred by inconsistency in both team performances and leadership outcomes.
Dhoni, the most decorated captain in the history of the Indian Premier League, now steps in to try and rescue CSK's faltering season. Having previously led the franchise to five IPL titles and 133 wins out of 226 matches, Dhoni brings with him unparalleled leadership experience, strategic clarity, and, perhaps most importantly, the unwavering trust of his team and fans. The last time he captained the side was in the IPL 2023 final, where CSK defeated Gujarat Titans in a thrilling contest to lift their fifth title, equalling the record held by Mumbai Indians under Rohit Sharma’s leadership.
The announcement of Dhoni’s return as skipper has electrified the CSK fanbase, with social media awash with tributes, throwback videos, and celebrations. The return of ‘Thala’ as captain feels almost cinematic-like a second wind at a time when the franchise needs him the most. The crowd at the Eden Gardens is expected to erupt when Dhoni walks out for the toss in CSK yellow, reigniting the familiar image that has defined the IPL for over a decade.
The road ahead is not going to be easy. CSK will need to regroup, rebuild confidence, and find winning combinations quickly if they are to stay in contention for a playoff berth. Injuries, form slumps, and the pressure of expectations will hover over the team, but with Dhoni at the helm, there is renewed hope. Whether it leads to a fairy-tale comeback or just a nostalgic ride for the fans, one thing is certain: the remainder of CSK’s IPL 2025 journey just became a must-watch spectacle.
