Chennai Super Kings fans were left shocked after hearing that Ruturaj Gaikwad is injured and won’t be playing in the rest of IPL 2025. Many people online started searching for answers like “Why is Ruturaj not playing?” and “Who is the new CSK captain now?”
With CSK losing 4 out of their first 5 matches, things weren’t looking great. The team was struggling, and fans were losing hope. Questions like “Can CSK still qualify?” and “Will Dhoni take over again?” started trending on social media.
Now, there’s big news that’s got everyone talking — MS Dhoni is back as CSK captain for the rest of IPL 2025. If you’ve been searching for updates like “Dhoni replaces Ruturaj” or “Is Dhoni CSK captain again?”, this article has all the answers.
Why Ruturaj Gaikwad Is Out of IPL 2025
Ruturaj Gaikwad, CSK's newly appointed captain for IPL 2025, sustained a hairline fracture in his elbow during a match against Rajasthan Royals. Despite scoring 63 runs in that game and playing through pain in later matches against Delhi Capitals and Punjab Kings, scans revealed the injury was more serious than initially thought.
As a result, Gaikwad has been ruled out of the remainder of the season, forcing CSK to rethink their leadership strategy mid-tournament.
MS Dhoni’s Return to Captaincy
At 43 years old, MS Dhoni is back in the saddle. Having captained CSK from 2008 to 2023 (excluding the 2016–2017 suspension period), Dhoni’s leadership has always been synonymous with calm under pressure, strategic brilliance, and a never-say-die attitude.
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He led CSK to five IPL titles, making the team one of the most successful franchises in IPL history.
With Ruturaj sidelined, there was no better replacement than the man who built CSK from the ground up.
CSK’s Current Standing in IPL 2025
As of now, CSK is sitting at 9th position out of 10 teams, having won just 1 of their first 5 matches. The team has looked shaky—batting collapses, inconsistent bowling, and lack of on-field spark have raised alarm bells.
The pressure on young Ruturaj was immense, and while he tried his best, CSK needed an experienced leader for the crucial second half of the season.
With Dhoni back, the hope is that the team’s strategy, morale, and performance will take a positive turn.
What Experts Are Saying
Sourav Ganguly:
“If MS Dhoni has to play for CSK, he must be captain of CSK. Because MS Dhoni, the captain, is a different beast.”
This quote is already trending among fans and media. Ganguly’s words reflect what many in the cricket world believe—Dhoni’s leadership is irreplaceable.
Stephen Fleming (CSK Head Coach):
"With his calmness and game sense, Dhoni brings the edge we need. His presence itself lifts the dressing room."
Fan Reactions: Twitter/X Is Exploding
Fans have flooded social media with hashtags like:
- #ThalaBack
- #MSDReturns
- #DhoniCaptainAgain
- #CSKForever
Many have posted memes, tribute reels, and even emotional throwback moments from previous seasons.
Here are a few trending posts:
- "Chennai wasn’t yellow without Dhoni as captain. Thala is home!"
- "This isn’t just a comeback. This is CSK being CSK again."
What This Means for CSK Going Forward
- Experience Over Experiment: Dhoni’s comeback brings experience, calmness, and leadership when CSK needs it the most.
- Ruturaj’s Growth Isn’t Over: Even though Ruturaj is out, he now gets a chance to observe and learn more from Dhoni’s style during pressure games.
- Fan Confidence Restored: Morale in the fanbase—and likely in the locker room—is sky-high again.
Pros and Cons of Dhoni’s Captaincy Return
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Leadership under pressure | Age and injury risks |
| Boost in team morale | May limit younger player captaincy time |
| Tactical clarity | Comeback may not guarantee wins |
| Fanbase re-energized | Short-term fix |
Final Thoughts
This isn't just a captaincy switch. For CSK, this is war-time leadership. When the team is in crisis, they’ve called back the General—MS Dhoni.
Whether it leads to a miracle playoff finish or not, Dhoni’s return brings hope, belief, and that familiar energy CSK fans were missing. One thing’s for sure—the IPL just got a whole lot more exciting.
Are you excited to see Dhoni back as CSK captain? Drop your thoughts in the comments and share this with a fellow Thala fan!
FAQs
Why is Ruturaj Gaikwad not playing?
He has a hairline fracture in his elbow, confirmed by team doctors. He has been ruled out for the rest of IPL 2025.
Is MS Dhoni back as CSK captain permanently?
For the remainder of IPL 2025, yes. Post this season, decisions will depend on Dhoni's fitness and retirement plans.
What matches will Dhoni lead next?
His first match back will be against KKR, followed by critical games in the second half of the tournament.
Can CSK still qualify for playoffs?
Yes, but it’ll be tough. They need to win most of their remaining matches and hope other results go their way.
Sources & Disclaimer
Sources : Reuters , Livemint, Devdiscourse
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