Ruturaj Gaikwad To Take Over CSK Captaincy Next Season, Marking The End Of MS Dhoni’s Leadership

The former Indian skipper and legendary CSK player MS Dhoni has confirmed that the next season of IPL, Ruturaj Gaikwad will again take over the reigns of CSK. Gaikwad missed the second half of the IPL 2025 season due to an elbow injury.

After a disappointing end of the season, finishing at the bottom of the points table – CSK ended their tournament on high by winning their last game by a good margin of 83-runs by defeating the table-topper Gujarat Titans at Narendra Modi Stadium.

Bowing out with a W!
Until next time, Superfans! 💛🥳#GTvCSK #WhistlePodu 🦁💛 pic.twitter.com/iEDYjAF0ww

— Chennai Super Kings (@ChennaiIPL) May 25, 2025

The team’s performance didn’t just bring back some pride – it also gave a hopeful glimpse of the future, driven by young talent and new leadership. After the match, fans and experts were eager to hear from Dhoni about his plans for the IPL. While the seasoned keeper-batter didn’t confirm whether he’ll play in 2026 or retire, he was clear about one thing: Ruturaj Gaikwad will be leading the Chennai Super Kings again next season.

Also Read: IPL 2025: Here’s What RCB Needs To Do To Finish In Top-Two

What MS Dhoni Said

“Yes there are a few holes that we’d like to fill but one of the most important things was when Rutu comes back next season at least we are able to give him a team where he just needs to fit in 1 in the playing XI. He doesn’t have to worry about too many things,” Dhoni said at the post-match presentation.

It’s good to finish on a good note. This was one of our perfect performances. I think the fielding and the catching, throughout the season, we have caught really well.

Read more 🧵👇💛 pic.twitter.com/533Qau2eYM

— Chennai Super Kings (@ChennaiIPL) May 25, 2025

A Failed Season

CSK faced a tough setback early in the season, and even MS Dhoni stepping back into the leadership role couldn’t fully turn things around. Still, fans found a reason to be hopeful after the team’s dominant win against the Gujarat Titans in Ahmedabad on May 25. The match highlighted the promise of CSK’s young core, with Ayush Mhatre, Urvil Patel, and Dewald Brevis putting on a powerful display against a GT bowling attack that had been in good form – except for Prasidh Krishna, who stood out with an impressive 2/22 spell.

Also Read: Yuzvendra Chahal Injury Update: PBKS Spinner Likely To Miss Match Against Mumbai Indians – Will The Team Finish In Top Two?