Ruturaj Gaikwad, ruled out due to an elbow injury, addressed MS Dhoni as a “young wicketkeeper” while expressing support for him leading CSK again this season.
Chennai Super Kings have suffered a major setback as skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad has been ruled out of IPL 2025 with an elbow fracture. The top-order batter played a key role this season, and his absence weakens CSK’s already inconsistent batting unit. In response, the franchise has handed over captaincy duties to MS Dhoni for the remaining games.
Head coach Stephen Fleming confirmed the decision ahead of CSK’s clash against Kolkata Knight Riders. Later, Gaikwad shared a video expressing disappointment over missing the season but voiced support for the team and the “young wicketkeeper” who will now be leading CSK.
“Yes, it’s been a challenging season, but we’ve got a young wicketkeeper leading the team now, and hopefully things will turn around. I’ll be right there with the squad, supporting them from the dugout. I would’ve loved to help lift the team out of this situation, but some things are simply out of our control. Looking forward to backing the boys for the rest of the campaign, here’s to a strong finish to the season,” said Gaikwad in a video posted on CSK’s social media handles.
Straight from Rutu’s soul! 🤳💛📹#WhistlePodu #AllYouNeedIsYellove 🦁💛 pic.twitter.com/PNIZBWR1yR
— Chennai Super Kings (@ChennaiIPL) April 10, 2025
Meanwhile, Chennai Super Kings find themselves in trouble this IPL season, with four losses in five matches placing them at ninth in the standings. The return of MS Dhoni as captain offers a glimmer of hope for fans. With Ruturaj Gaikwad sidelined, the team will now rely on Rahul Tripathi, Devon Conway, and Rachin Ravindra to lead the charge at the top. Shivam Dube and Vijay Shankar must take responsibility in the middle overs. Chennai’s campaign needs a quick turnaround.
With only one win so far, CSK will hope to build momentum and revive their playoff hopes under their most trusted captain in the remaining fixtures.
