Legendary wicketkeeper-batter MS Dhoni might once again don the captain's hat for Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in their much-anticipated home fixture against the Delhi Capitals on Saturday, April 5, 2025, at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai. This possibility comes in the wake of an injury scare involving current CSK captain Ruturaj Gaikwad, who is still recovering from a painful elbow injury sustained during the team’s previous outing.
Gaikwad took a nasty blow to his elbow while batting in CSK’s recent clash against the Rajasthan Royals in Guwahati on Sunday, March 30. Although the team has had almost a full week off since that match, the 27-year-old opener has yet to regain full match fitness. As a result, CSK management is closely monitoring his recovery, with a final decision on his availability expected after the team's training session on Friday evening.
Addressing the media ahead of the clash, CSK’s batting coach Michael Hussey confirmed that Ruturaj remains under observation and that the medical staff is working hard to assess his readiness. “We’ll see how he pulls up after training. He’s had a bit of time to heal, but the elbow is still sore, and we don’t want to risk it if he’s not 100 percent,” Hussey said.
When pressed on who could lead the team in Ruturaj’s absence, Hussey gave a cryptic yet humorous response. “There’s a young guy behind the stumps — maybe he can step in,” Hussey joked, clearly referring to MS Dhoni, drawing laughter from the press.
Hussey further added with a smile, “I’m not exactly sure what the final call will be, but yes, there’s someone with a fair bit of captaincy experience who could take over if needed.”
The idea of Dhoni, one of the most iconic leaders in cricket history, leading CSK again — especially at Chepauk — has already ignited a wave of nostalgia and excitement among fans. Dhoni last captained CSK during their triumphant IPL 2023 campaign, where he led the team to their fifth IPL title, equalling Mumbai Indians’ record. He then stepped down and passed the leadership torch to Gaikwad ahead of the 2024 season, opting to focus on grooming the next generation while continuing to play as a mentor and wicketkeeper.
Now, with Gaikwad’s fitness in doubt and CSK facing an undefeated Delhi Capitals side, Dhoni’s leadership could be called upon once again — at least for a match. Known for his calm demeanour, tactical brilliance, and deep understanding of the game, Dhoni’s return as captain would not only strengthen the team tactically but also give the fans a special moment to cherish, especially if it happens at CSK’s fortress in Chennai.
The fixture is a crucial one for CSK, who are aiming to maintain momentum early in the season. Delhi Capitals, on the other hand, have been in red-hot form and remain unbeaten so far. A win against such a strong side would be a major boost for CSK — and what better person to lead them into such a battle than the man who has brought the franchise unprecedented glory over the years?
Meanwhile, CSK will also be assessing other injury concerns and player workloads, with key players like Ravindra Jadeja and Deepak Chahar expected to play pivotal roles. The franchise has built its legacy around smart decisions and adaptability, and Saturday’s game could be a perfect showcase of that ethos — with or without Ruturaj in the playing XI.
Fans will eagerly be watching the toss, hoping to hear MS Dhoni’s name called out once more as captain — perhaps for what could be one final nostalgic encore in front of his home crowd.
