IPL 2025: Can Dhoni's return as captain turn CSK's season around?

Chennai Super Kings (CSK) skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad has been sidelined for the remainder of the Indian Premier League 2025 (IPL 2025) after sustaining a hairline fracture in his elbow. Head coach Stephen Fleming confirmed that MS Dhoni will take over the captaincy duties for the rest of the season, starting with their upcoming clash against Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), scheduled to be played on April 11.

The leadership change at Chennai Super Kings (CSK) comes at a pivotal moment, with the team reeling from four consecutive losses. MS Dhoni is set to return as captain for the first time since leading CSK to a record-equalling fifth IPL title in the 2023 final against the Gujarat Titans (GT) at the Narendra Modi Stadium. Prior to the 2024 season, Dhoni had stepped down from the role, handing the reins to Ruturaj Gaikwad.

Also Read: Ms Dhoni to lead CSK after Ruturaj Gaikwad ruled out of IPL 2025

However, Gaikwad’s stint as captain hasn’t gone as hoped. The 27-year-old couldn’t guide CSK to the playoffs last season and has struggled in IPL 2025, with the team currently at ninth place after losing four of their first five matches. With Dhoni back at the helm, CSK fans are hopeful for a turnaround. Known as the most successful captain in IPL history, Dhoni has led his side to 133 wins in 226 matches and shares the record for most titles (five) with Rohit Sharma. As CSK look to reignite their campaign, all eyes are on whether Dhoni’s return can inspire a change in fortunes. His comeback as captain has already sparked massive excitement among fans, thrilled to see their beloved 'Thala' back in charge.

He's been operating with an amount of pain: Stephen Fleming

CSK head coach Stephen Fleming confirmed during the pre-match press conference ahead of their upcoming clash with KKR that an MRI scan had revealed the full extent of Ruturaj Gaikwad's injury. He also announced that MS Dhoni will take over the captaincy for the remainder of the season.

"He got hit in Guwahati. He's been operating with an amount of pain. We got an X-ray, which was inconclusive, and we had an MRI, which revealed a fracture in his elbow, in the radial neck," said former New Zealand skipper.