MS Dhoni might be asked to step in and lead the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) once more, as the franchise awaits further clarity on captain Ruturaj Gaikwad’s injury. Gaikwad took a hit to his right elbow during CSK’s defeat to the Rajasthan Royals (RR) in Guwahati and has not been able to participate in training since then.
CSK are set to take on an in-form Delhi Capitals (DC) next at the MA Chidambaram Stadium on Friday, April 5. If Ruturaj Gaikwad recovers in time and is fit to bat, the 28-year-old will retain his spot at the top. Otherwise, fans could witness the legendary MS Dhoni walking out for the toss for the 236th time in his illustrious career!
“Yeah, we’re hoping he [Gaikwad] is going to try and have a bat today during training,” said Michael Hussey, CSK’s batting coach, during the pre-match press conference. “The elbow is still a little bit sore, but it’s getting better every day. So, we’re quite hopeful that he’ll be ready for tomorrow.”
“I’m not sure, actually. I don’t think we’ve actually thought about that [captaincy] too much. Well, I haven’t thought about it too much. I’m sure Stephen Fleming (CSK head coach) and Rutu have thought about that. But we’ve got some young guy coming through. He’s behind the stumps. Maybe he can do a good job. I’m not sure. He’s got a bit of experience in the role, so maybe he could do it. But I’m not exactly sure, to be honest.” Hussey added.
Captaincy Conundrum and Gaikwad Blow Leave CSK Searching for Stability
While Hussey stopped short of confirming Dhoni as captain, the big question remains what are CSK’s real options? Sure, seasoned names like Ravi Ashwin or Ravindra Jadeja are in the mix, but CSK has always had a flair for drama, especially at Chepauk. The roar from the crowd would be deafening if Dhoni walked out for the toss even if just one more time.
But the concern runs deeper than just leadership. Ruturaj Gaikwad’s potential absence is a serious blow to CSK’s batting stability. As the in-form batter at No. 3, his composed starts have been a key reason the top-order’s inconsistencies haven’t hurt the team more. Losing him would leave a noticeable void that’s not easy to fill, both in terms of runs and calmness at the crease.
Without Gaikwad, CSK will likely be forced into a reshuffle—both in their playing XI and overseas combination triggering a potential selection headache. With Rahul Tripathi struggling for form, Devon Conway’s return becomes a strong possibility. However, fitting him in could mean sacrificing either Jamie Overton or Matheesha Pathirana, both of whom bring critical value with ball in hand.
A Conway–Rachin Ravindra pairing at the top might just offer the left-handed stability and composure CSK needs, especially in Gaikwad’s absence. Their ability to anchor and rotate the strike could be crucial in providing a solid foundation for the middle order to build upon.
