Chennai Super Kings (CSK) skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad recently opened up about the pivotal moment when MS Dhoni passed the leadership baton to him ahead of IPL 2024. Gaikwad, who has been with CSK since 2019, admitted that the news took him by surprise, as he wasn’t expecting to lead one of the most successful franchises in IPL history. Dhoni, who captained CSK in 212 matches and led them to five IPL titles, stepped down just before the start of the season, entrusting Gaikwad with the responsibility.
“Just a week before the tournament last year, MS Dhoni came up to me and said, ‘I’m not leading this year—you are.’ I was taken aback, asking, ‘From the first game? Are you sure?’ With just a few days to prepare, it was overwhelming,” Ruturaj Gaikwad recalled during an interview on JioHotstar.
However, Dhoni’s reassurance and faith in his ability made the transition smoother. “He told me, ‘This is your team. You make your own decisions. I won’t interfere—except when field placements are a 50-50 call. Even then, it’s not a compulsion to follow my advice.’ That trust meant a lot to me,” Gaikwad added.
ALSO READ: Brydon Carse Ruled Out of IPL 2025; SRH Name Wiaan Mulder As Replacement
Dhoni, who has been the face of CSK since the inaugural IPL season in 2008, briefly stepped down in 2022, handing the captaincy to Ravindra Jadeja before reclaiming it mid-season. His leadership style has always been about empowering players, a trait that former India batter Aakash Chopra highlighted.
“When a legendary captain is still in the squad, his presence can be either a guiding force or an overwhelming one. Some might wonder, ‘Am I really leading, or is the team still looking to the former captain?’ But Dhoni’s personality is exceptional—he ensures a seamless transition without overshadowing the new leader,” said Aakash Chopra.
In Gaikwad’s first season as CSK captain, the team narrowly missed out on a playoff spot in IPL 2024. They finished fifth with seven wins and seven losses, missing out on qualification due to net run rate, falling just short of Royal Challengers Bengaluru.
ALSO READ: David Lloyd Slams Champions Trophy Schedule, Calls It “Farcical”
As Dhoni gears up for what will be his 18th IPL season in 2025, his legacy continues to inspire players and fans alike. With 264 IPL matches under his belt and 5234 runs, including 24 half-centuries, his longevity remains unparalleled.
South African legend AB de Villiers also praised Dhoni’s impact on the game. “Credit to him for inspiring millions of fans to watch and love cricket. It’s because of players like him that the game has been carried forward so well over a long period. Hopefully, we get to see him for a few more years,” AB de Villiers said.
