MS Dhoni Returns as CSK Captain: Fans Ecstatic as Ruturaj Gaikwad Sidelined with Injury
NEW DELHI: In a dramatic turn of events, the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) will once again be led by their legendary talisman, MS Dhoni, as the franchise confirmed on Thursday that current skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad has been ruled out of the remainder of IPL 2025 due to a fractured elbow. The announcement has sent shockwaves through the cricketing world, reigniting the passion of millions of fans who have long revered Dhoni as ‘Thala’—the leader.
The news broke just a day before CSK’s highly anticipated home clash against arch-rivals Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) at the iconic MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai, scheduled for April 8, 2025. The timing couldn’t have been more cinematic, as fans gear up to witness Dhoni don the captaincy mantle once more in a stadium that has often been dubbed his fortress.
CSK head coach Stephen Fleming addressed the media, stating, ‘Ruturaj Gaikwad has unfortunately sustained a fracture in his elbow during a recent training session. After consultations with medical experts, he has been advised rest and rehabilitation, ruling him out for the season. MS Dhoni will take over the captaincy for the remainder of IPL 2025.’ The update, while disheartening for Gaikwad’s fans, sparked an outpouring of nostalgia and excitement for Dhoni’s return.
Within minutes of the announcement, social media platforms like Twitter and Instagram were flooded with reactions. Hashtags such as #ThalaReturns and #CaptainCool began trending globally, with fans posting iconic images and videos of Dhoni’s past triumphs. One user wrote, ‘The King is back on his throne! CSK without Dhoni as captain just didn’t feel right. Let’s win this for Thala!’
Dhoni, who stepped down from captaincy ahead of the 2024 season to hand over the reins to Gaikwad, boasts an unparalleled legacy in the Indian Premier League (IPL). Under his leadership, CSK has clinched five IPL titles (2010, 2011, 2018, 2021, and 2023), making him the joint-most successful captain in the tournament’s history alongside Rohit Sharma. Known for his calm demeanor and tactical acumen, Dhoni has guided CSK to the playoffs in 12 out of 14 seasons he has led them, a record that speaks volumes about his consistency.
This isn’t the first time Dhoni has staged a mid-season comeback as captain. In 2022, after a string of poor performances under Ravindra Jadeja’s leadership, Dhoni took charge once again to steady the ship. His return this time, with Gaikwad sidelined, feels like déjà vu for fans who have always believed in his Midas touch. At 43 years old, Dhoni continues to defy age, not just with his wicket-keeping skills and finishing prowess but also with his ability to inspire a team under pressure.
Gaikwad’s injury, while a massive blow to CSK, opens the door for Dhoni to potentially script another fairy-tale chapter in his illustrious career. The young opener, who scored 583 runs in IPL 2024 at an average of over 40, was seen as the future of CSK’s leadership. However, fate has handed the baton back to the man who built the franchise’s legacy brick by brick.
As the IPL 2025 playoffs loom on the horizon, all eyes will be on Dhoni to see if he can rally the Yellow Army for yet another title run. With a passionate fanbase chanting his name and the weight of expectations on his shoulders, ‘Captain Cool’ will look to weave his magic once more. Tomorrow’s clash against KKR promises to be an emotional rollercoaster, as the Chepauk crowd prepares to roar louder than ever for their returning hero.
Will Dhoni add another glorious chapter to his storied CSK journey? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain—the IPL just got a whole lot more exciting.