MS Dhoni returns as CSK captain after Ruturaj Gaikwad ruled out of IPL

In a dramatic mid-season twist, Chennai Super Kings (CSK) legend MS Dhoni has been reinstated as captain for the remainder of the IPL 2025 season. This sudden change follows a serious injury to current skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad, who has been ruled out due to a hairline fracture on his elbow sustained after being struck by a Jofra Archer delivery.

The news was confirmed by CSK head coach Stephen Fleming on Thursday, followed by an official statement from the franchise. “Ruturaj Gaikwad ruled out of the season due to a hairline fracture of the elbow. MS Dhoni to lead,” read the statement. CSK fans flooded social media with messages of support for Gaikwad and excitement over Dhoni's unexpected return to leadership.

At 43, Dhoni’s return is as symbolic as it is strategic. The five-time IPL winning captain had stepped down ahead of the 2024 season, handing over the reins to a composed and promising Gaikwad. However, with CSK languishing at 9th place after four defeats in five matches, Dhoni now faces the uphill task of reviving the team’s campaign starting with a crunch tie against Kolkata Knight Riders in Chennai.

In a heartfelt reflection, Dhoni said he had tried to give Gaikwad full autonomy as captain. “He made 99% of the decisions himself — field placements, bowling changes — I was just helping out,” Dhoni said. He praised Gaikwad's calm demeanor and leadership growth, even as he prepares to step back into a role he knows too well.

Dhoni also took the opportunity to reflect on the rapid evolution of T20 cricket. “Players are now willing to take more risks and innovate more. You need to keep evolving to stay relevant — and I’m no different,” he said. From scoops to reverse sweeps against pacers, Dhoni acknowledged how much the game has changed since his early IPL days.

The franchise now hopes that Dhoni’s calm experience and tactical mastery will bring balance and belief back to a shaken squad. With half the season still to go, fans are rallying around their iconic leader one more time — hoping for another magical turnaround under “Captain Cool.”