 "MS Dhoni walks out to bat during Chennai Super Kings' opening game of IPL 2025 against arch-rivals Mumbai Indians. Image: AP")
In a major blow to Chennai Super Kings (CSK), their captain Ruturaj Gaikwad has been ruled out of the remainder of the IPL 2025 season after suffering an elbow fracture. In a dramatic turn of events, legendary skipper MS Dhoni will return to lead the side for the rest of the tournament.
“Chennai Super Kings captain Ruturaj Gaikwad has been ruled out of the remainder of IPL 2025 due to a hairline fracture of the elbow. MS Dhoni will take over as the skipper. Ruturaj Gaikwad is likely to heal in four to six weeks. Chennai Super Kings wishes Ruturaj Gaikwad a speedy recovery,” CSK said in its statement.
Gaikwad sustained the injury during CSK’s last fixture against Punjab Kings (PBKS) on 8 April. The opener is expected to be out of action for several weeks, effectively ending his campaign. CSK are currently ninth on the points table. CSK will now have to regroup quickly under Dhoni’s command.
The franchise will also have to make a decision on a replacement player for Gaikwad in the coming days, either from the bench or through an approved injury replacement. As the five-time IPL champions prepare for their next match against Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), all eyes will now be on Dhoni to steer the ship once again.