Ruturaj Gaikwad sidelined as MS Dhoni returns to lead CSK

In a change of leadership, Chennai Super Kings will be without their captain Ruturaj Gaikwad for the remainder of the Indian Premier League 2025 season due to a serious elbow injury. The injury occurred when he was hit on the elbow during a match against Rajasthan Royals on March 30, 2025. Following the incident, Gaikwad managed to play a few more games but ultimately was deemed unfit to continue after further medical evaluations revealed a fracture in his elbow. Team coach Stephen Fleming confirmed the news, expressing disappointment and commending Gaikwad's efforts to play through the injury. Amidst this adverse situation, veteran batsman MS Dhoni will step in as captain for the team. Dhoni has been a foundational figure for CSK, having led the team since its inception in 2008 and having secured five IPL titles under his captaincy. He returned to captaincy following a challenging season where the team’s performance has been lackluster, managing only one win out of five initial matches. This leadership shift is seen as a move to stabilize the team's trajectory in the tournament as they prepare to face the Kolkata Knight Riders. The decision to allow Dhoni to take over the reins has elicited mixed reactions from fans on social media. Many expressed gratitude and excitement at Dhoni's return, as he remains a beloved figure in the cricketing world. However, others criticized the celebrations surrounding his return as disrespectful to Ruturaj Gaikwad, highlighting the importance of acknowledging Gaikwad's contributions to the team despite his injury. The contrast in reactions illustrates the passion surrounding the franchise and its leadership. As CSK faces a pivotal moment in the tournament with Dhoni back at the helm, fans are hopeful that his experience might turn around their challenging start. Nevertheless, the loss of Gaikwad, an emerging talent, raises concerns about the team's depth and adaptability moving forward in the IPL season.