MS Dhoni is back as the captain of Chennai Super Kings. He will lead the five-time IPL champions for the rest of IPL 2025 after regular skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad was ruled out due to an elbow fracture. CSK head coach Stephen Fleming shared the update with the media. “Ruturaj Gaikwad ruled out of IPL with fracture on elbow. MS Dhoni to take over as captain,” Fleming said on Thursday. Gaikwad got injured after being hit by a short ball from Jofra Archer.
MS Dhoni, who has led Chennai Super Kings to five IPL titles, will return as captain starting Friday when CSK take on Kolkata Knight Riders in Chennai. “Ruturaj Gaikwad ruled out of the season due to a hairline fracture of the elbow. MS Dhoni to lead,” CSK said in an official statement.
Chennai Super Kings haven’t had the best start in IPL 2025. Out of five matches played, they’ve lost four and are currently in ninth place on the 10-team points table.
Meanwhile, former India cricketer Robin Uthappa shared his thoughts on MS Dhoni’s approach and changing role at Chennai Super Kings after their 18-run loss to Punjab Kings. He said Dhoni is playing so well right now that he should bat higher up the order.
Punjab Kings chose to bat first and scored 219/6, with Priyansh Arya smashing a brilliant 103—his knock included 7 fours and 9 sixes, making it the second-fastest century by an Indian in IPL history. Dhoni’s quick 27 off 12 balls gave CSK some hope, but he was dismissed in the final over, and CSK suffered their fourth straight loss.
“I don’t think there was ever a lack of intent from MS Dhoni. Even outside the IPL, I believe he has passed on responsibility to others and given them a clear understanding of what to expect in the coming years as CSK rebuilds into a championship-contending side. That transition is happening, and while we would love to see MS bat the way he is right now, perhaps a little higher up the order, I don’t think the problem lies at the end,” Uthappa said on JioHotstar.