As per numerous reports from the cricketing realm, Vijay Shankar is set to fill the shoes of Mahendra Singh Dhoni for the Chennai Super Kings’ (CSK) clash against the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB). The former Indian captain voiced a cryptic message during the toss of CSK’s latest encounter against the Punjab Kings, hinting at a new twist in his cricket career.

During the toss against PBKS, cricket commentator Danny Morrison, inquired of Dhoni about his potential IPL future, to which the 43-year-old shared an unpleasant reply for the majority of the CSK fans. Not only did he express his uncertainty over the next year’s participation, but also on the next match’s availability. Certainly, his words spread around social media, causing a frenzy. 

“I don't know, I'm coming for the next game (laughs),” Dhoni said. 

See more: IPL 2025: CSK vs RCB – Player Battles to Watch Out For

CSK’s New Captain

As per reports from a close source of CSK management, Vijay Shankar is set to lead the five-time champions for their contest against RCB. With four games left in the bank, the all-rounder might captain the side for the remaining games too. Previously, Dhoni filled the shoes of regular Ruturaj Gaikwad, who was ruled out of the tourney with an elbow injury.

Shankar has yet to retain his spot in the playing XI, and the fact that he might lead the Yellow army took the fans by surprise. He has scored 118 runs from five innings at an average of 29.50 in the ensuing edition. Despite an unbridled 69 off 54 balls against the Delhi Capitals at the M.A. Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai, the local veteran was dropped by the management after their clash against the Mumbai Indians on April 20.

Currently, CSK are at the wooden spoon in the league table with four points from ten games, winning a couple of games and losing eight of them. Additionally, they’ve won just a solitary game from their last nine games. Their next fixture is against RCB at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru, before facing KKR, RR, and GT to draw curtains on the season.