“This Is Your Team” – MS Dhoni’s Trust in Ruturaj Gaikwad Fuels CSK’s Future

Ruturaj Gaikwad reveals how MS Dhoni handed him the captaincy, assuring full freedom, as cricket experts back his leadership ahead of IPL 2025.

Mumbai, March 5 – As Chennai Super Kings (CSK) gear up for the 2025 Indian Premier League (IPL) season, skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad has opened up about the moment MS Dhoni entrusted him with captaincy and the trust he received from the legendary leader.

Speaking exclusively on JioHotstar, Gaikwad revealed how Dhoni’s transition plan was a shock but came with complete backing. “Just a week before the tournament last year, MS Dhoni came up to me and said, ‘I am not leading this year—you are.’ I was taken aback, asking, ‘From the first game? Are you sure?’” Gaikwad recalled.

With just days to adjust, the responsibility seemed overwhelming, but Dhoni’s words reassured him. “He told me, ‘This is your team. You make your own decisions. I would not interfere—except when field placements are a 50-50 call. Even then, it is not a compulsion to follow my advice.’ That trust meant a lot to me.”

CSK’s Road to Redemption in IPL 2025

CSK will begin their IPL 2025 campaign against arch-rivals Mumbai Indians (MI) on March 23 in Chennai. After a mixed 2024 season where they finished fifth (7 wins, 7 losses, 14 points) and missed the playoffs due to net run rate, all eyes will be on Gaikwad’s leadership.

Legends Back CSK’s New Captain

Australian legend Shane Watson lauded Dhoni’s longevity and impact on the team, saying, “Even at 42, MS Dhoni still delivers moments of brilliance. Though his role is more limited now, his influence on the team—and the fans—is invaluable.”

Former cricketer Aakash Chopra emphasized that Dhoni was not just playing a supporting role last season but was “holding his hand to the next king in line.”

CSK veteran Robin Uthappa backed Gaikwad’s leadership qualities, comparing him to Dhoni. “He has a calm demeanor, very similar to MS Dhoni. He is evolving as a leader, and with time, his performances will reflect that growth.”

Gaikwad’s Stellar IPL 2024 Season

Despite the pressure of captaincy, Gaikwad’s batting flourished. In 14 matches, he amassed 583 runs at an average of 53.00, a strike rate of 141.16, and registered one century (108) and four fifties*. He finished as the second-highest run-getter of IPL 2024.

Watson highlighted this as a sign of CSK’s well-executed succession plan: “That speaks volumes about how well CSK’s leadership transition is working.”

With MS Dhoni’s mentorship and unwavering faith, Ruturaj Gaikwad is set to lead CSK’s new era in IPL 2025. The big question remains—can he bring home a sixth title for Chennai?

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Tags: Ruturaj Gaikwad, MS Dhoni, Chennai Super Kings, IPL 2025, CSK Captain, Dhoni Leadership, Ruturaj Gaikwad Captaincy, IPL 2025 Opening Match, CSK vs MI, IPL News