Ruturaj Gaikwad’s Injury Controversy: Football Video Sparks Debate Amid CSK’s IPL 2025 Crisis

Ruturaj Gaikwad’s Injury Drama Sparks Controversy as Viral Video Shows Him Playing Football with CSK Teammates

Summary

Ruturaj Gaikwad’s sudden exit from IPL 2025 due to an elbow injury shook Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and their fans alike. But what’s creating even bigger headlines is a viral video showing the injured Gaikwad playing football with CSK teammates during practice. The video has stirred controversy, raising questions over the seriousness of his injury and triggering debates across social media. With MS Dhoni stepping in once again as CSK’s captain, the timing of this controversy couldn't have been more dramatic for a struggling CSK side.

Short Scorecard from CSK’s IPL 2025 Journey So Far

• Ruturaj Gaikwad – 122 runs in 5 matches

• CSK’s position in IPL 2025 table – 9th

• MS Dhoni – Reappointed as CSK Captain for remainder of IPL 2025

• Last 5 matches – 1 win, 4 losses

Injured Ruturaj gaikwad playing football currently. pic.twitter.com/dNJgQ7Dn4S

— Juylov Vladislav (@juylov_vlad) April 10, 2025

Ruturaj Gaikwad’s Injury: The Beginning of a CSK Setback

The IPL 2025 season hasn't exactly been a fairytale for Chennai Super Kings so far. Their trusted opener and newly appointed captain, Ruturaj Gaikwad, was expected to lead the yellow brigade into a new era. But fate had other plans. During an intense clash early in the tournament, Gaikwad sustained an elbow injury, which later turned out to be a hairline fracture, ruling him out for the remainder of the season.

CSK officially announced the unfortunate news through their head coach Stephen Fleming, expressing disappointment but confirming that MS Dhoni, the man who has led CSK to five IPL titles, would take over the captaincy responsibilities once again.

However, Gaikwad’s exit wasn’t just about losing a player. It was about losing CSK's most in-form batter. With 122 runs in five matches at an impressive strike rate, Gaikwad’s presence at the top order was vital, especially in a season where CSK's batting lineup has looked vulnerable.

Viral Video Sparks Social Media Storm: Is Ruturaj Really Injured?

Just when fans were coming to terms with Gaikwad’s injury, social media was set ablaze with a video clip showing him playing football with his CSK teammates during a warm-up session.

In the video, Gaikwad could be seen actively running and kicking the football without any apparent discomfort in his elbow. This sent social media into a frenzy, with many fans questioning the seriousness of his injury.

Several users commented things like:

“If Ruturaj is playing football comfortably, how serious is this elbow injury really?”
“Has CSK made a tactical decision to bench him, or is this just bad injury management?”

While the authenticity and timing of the video are unconfirmed, the optics certainly didn’t help CSK's management, already under pressure due to the team's poor form.

CSK’s Current Crisis Deepens Ahead of Clash with KKR

This controversy couldn't have come at a worse time for CSK. With four consecutive defeats after their opening win, they are currently placed ninth on the IPL 2025 points table. The upcoming match against Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) at the MA Chidambaram Stadium is a must-win to keep their playoff hopes alive.

Adding to their challenges is the growing unrest among fans over this injury controversy. CSK’s loyal fanbase, known for their passionate support, is now divided. While some believe in the official injury update, others feel the team management hasn't been transparent.

Ruturaj Gaikwad Breaks Silence with Emotional Message

Perhaps sensing the growing storm on social media, Ruturaj Gaikwad addressed fans through a heartfelt video posted by CSK. In the video, Gaikwad expressed disappointment about missing the rest of the IPL 2025 season.

He said:

“I am really gutted to miss out on the future part of the IPL due to an unfortunate elbow injury. I would have loved to take this team out of this situation, but some things are not in our control.”

Interestingly, Gaikwad jokingly referred to MS Dhoni as a “young wicketkeeper leading the team,” sparking light-hearted reactions online.

But for many, the video didn’t address the burning question if his elbow injury is that serious, why was he playing football in the first place?

MS Dhoni Returns as CSK Captain: A Familiar Yet Pressurizing Role

With Gaikwad out, all eyes are once again on MS Dhoni. At 43, the legend of Dhoni continues to grow, but the situation he inherits is nothing short of challenging. CSK’s batting has been inconsistent, their bowling lacks bite, and their fielding has been error-prone.

Dhoni’s experience, tactical genius, and calming presence will surely help, but CSK fans know that turning around the season won’t be easy especially amid swirling controversies.

The Road Ahead for CSK and Gaikwad

As CSK gears up to face KKR at Chepauk, there are two key things at play on-field performance and off-field optics. Winning matches will help silence criticism, but the Ruturaj Gaikwad controversy will likely stay in discussions unless clarified more transparently.

Meanwhile, for Gaikwad, the immediate focus will be rehabilitation and recovery. Fans would hope that the injury is managed well, avoiding long-term consequences.