Chennai Super Kings (CSK) made waves on Thursday with the announcement of Ruturaj Gaikwad as their new skipper, just on the eve of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024. The franchise, known for its strategic decisions, surprised fans by appointing Gaikwad to succeed the legendary MS Dhoni, signalling a new era for the team.
Ruturaj Gaikwad, who was acquired by CSK at the IPL 2019 player auction, has proven his mettle with the bat and now steps into the leadership role with confidence and determination. The decision to name Ruturaj Gaikwad as captain reportedly came just before the team’s captain’s photoshoot for the IPL 2024 opener.
CSK CEO Kasi Viswanathan received the news, indicating a strategic move by the franchise management. However, Gaikwad revealed that Dhoni had hinted at the possibility of captaincy during the previous season, preparing him for the responsibility.
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In a video shared on X, Ruturaj Gaikwad recalled Dhoni’s advice, stating, “Last year itself, Mahi Bhai had hinted about captaincy… He just hinted that ‘Just be ready, it should not come as a surprise to you.'” This foresight from Dhoni helped Gaikwad mentally prepare for the leadership role, easing the transition when the opportunity finally arose.
.@ChennaiIPL fans, meet your new Captain! 😎
The newly appointed #CSK skipper, Ruturaj Gaikwad, shares what this new opportunity means to him 💛 – By @RajalArora#TATAIPL | #CSKvRCB pic.twitter.com/PS1qfGH2n9
— IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) March 22, 2024
As CSK prepares to face Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in the opening match, Ruturaj Gaikwad finds himself alongside his former opening partner Faf du Plessis, who now captains RCB. Reflecting on their journey, Gaikwad expressed excitement about sharing the stage with du Plessis at the toss, highlighting the anticipation surrounding the season’s inaugural clash.
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RuturajGaikwad emphasized continuity in CSK’s approach, acknowledging the team’s successful mantra under Dhoni’s leadership. With stalwarts like Dhoni, Ravindra Jadeja, and Ajinkya Rahane by his side, Gaikwad feels confident in maintaining the team’s ethos and strategies. He expressed gratitude for Dhoni’s trust in him and embraced the challenge of leading a prestigious franchise like CSK.
“It feels great to be trusted by MS Dhoni for a leadership role… It obviously speaks a lot,” Rutuaj Gaikwad remarked. “I have liked how this franchise has worked throughout the years… I wouldn’t like to change a single bit of it.” With a strong support system in place, Gaikwad is poised to lead CSK with resilience and determination in the upcoming IPL season.
