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MS Dhoni Could Lead CSK Again in IPL 2025 if Ruturaj Gaikwad Misses Clash Against Delhi Capitals

The yellow brigade of Chennai is once again holding its breath not just for another matchday but for the possible return of a familiar leader. As Chennai Super Kings gear up to face Delhi Capitals in their IPL 2025 fixture at Chepauk, the spotlight isn’t just on the cricket. It's on MS Dhoni, who could walk out as CSK captain once again if current skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad fails to recover from a forearm injury.

Gaikwad's participation is hanging by a thread after he was struck on the right forearm by a delivery from Tushar Deshpande in CSK’s recent encounter against Rajasthan Royals. Although he continued to bat after treatment, he hasn’t trained since then. According to CSK batting coach Mike Hussey, a final call will be made after assessing how Gaikwad handles his net session.

Gaikwad’s Injury Casts Doubt Ahead of Crucial Home Fixture

Ruturaj Gaikwad, who has been the most dependable batter in CSK’s top order this season, was struck by a short ball that bounced awkwardly. The incident raised concerns not just about the injury itself but also about the depth in CSK’s batting order, which has struggled for consistency early in IPL 2025. The team has only one win from three games and will need its best players on the park to get back on track.

“He’s improving every day,” Hussey said in the pre-match press conference. “We're hopeful. He's going to try and have a hit in the nets. That will tell us where he's at physically.”

However, with no other designated leadership option in the current XI, if Gaikwad is unfit, there’s a strong chance MS Dhoni the legend behind CSK’s dominance over the years might temporarily return to the role.

Dhoni Back as Captain? A Familiar Hero May Step In Again

Hussey did not name Dhoni directly, but he hinted at the possibility with a touch of humor and respect. “We’ve got some young guy behind the stumps. He’s got a bit of experience in the role,” Hussey said, triggering a smile across the press room.

It’s no secret that Dhoni still commands immense respect both within the franchise and across the league. Although he stepped down from captaincy before IPL 2024, his cricketing mind continues to shape CSK’s decisions. If Ruturaj doesn’t make the cut, the symbolic and strategic move of having Dhoni step in, even for a match, would lift team morale and excite fans.

Captain Cool’s Legacy in Numbers and Leadership

If Dhoni returns to captaincy even briefly it would mark another chapter in one of the most illustrious leadership careers in T20 history. Having led CSK in 235 IPL matches with 142 wins and five IPL trophies (2010, 2011, 2018, 2021, and 2023), his captaincy win percentage stands at a remarkable 60.42%. Dhoni is also the only international captain to win the ICC T20 World Cup (2007), ODI World Cup (2011), and Champions Trophy (2013) a testament to his legacy as one of the finest leaders in cricket history.

Since stepping down from international cricket in 2020, Dhoni has continued to play IPL, serving more as a mentor than just a wicketkeeper. However, his quiet influence from behind the stumps and in team huddles is evident in CSK’s calm approach under pressure.

CSK’s Batting Woes Could Deepen Without Gaikwad

More than the captaincy, Gaikwad’s absence if confirmed would deal a blow to the team’s already unsettled batting unit. CSK's top order has not fired in tandem this season, and Gaikwad’s runs at No. 3 have often anchored their innings. Without him, CSK may have to reshuffle their XI significantly.

One option could be the return of Devon Conway, which would impact the overseas balance. If Conway is slotted back in, one of Jamie Overton or Matheesha Pathirana might have to make way. Additionally, Anshul Kamboj, who had a long net session on the eve of the match, could be in line for his first game of the season.

Delhi Capitals Bring Challenge, CSK Seek Stability

CSK will be up against a Delhi Capitals side high on confidence, having won both of their opening fixtures. With Kuldeep Yadav and Anrich Nortje hitting the right lengths, CSK's batting needs to click regardless of who captains. The match being at MA Chidambaram Stadium, where conditions favor spinners, makes team composition all the more critical.

If Dhoni leads CSK again, it won’t just be a strategic move it would be a nostalgic moment, likely energizing both the players and fans. His tactical awareness and calm demeanor in crunch moments remain unmatched, and on a spinning Chennai wicket, his glove work and field placements could tilt the game.

Dhoni Retirement Rumors Still Simmer

Amid ongoing IPL 2025 speculation, rumors of Dhoni’s retirement resurfaced this week fueled further by an April Fool’s Day hoax. While he has made no official announcement, the clock is ticking. Every game could potentially be his last. Whether or not he wears the captain’s armband again after this season remains uncertain, making each appearance that much more special.

For now, all eyes are on Gaikwad’s fitness and CSK’s final XI. If the stars align and Dhoni walks out for the toss, the Chepauk crowd will rise, not just in celebration but in recognition of a cricketing era that continues to echo through time.