IPL 2025: Dhoni likely to captain CSK against DC if Gaikwad not fit in time, says Hussey

IANS April 4, 2025 353 views

Chennai Super Kings' batting coach Michael Hussey revealed a potential captaincy change for the upcoming IPL match against Delhi Capitals. Ruturaj Gaikwad's elbow injury might see MS Dhoni stepping in as captain, a role he masterfully handled in the 2023 final. The team is working through top-order batting challenges and exploring lineup adjustments. Despite recent performance struggles, the CSK management remains confident in their strategy and player capabilities.

"I'm sure Stephen Fleming and Rutu have thought about that" - Michael Hussey
IPL 2025: Dhoni likely to captain CSK against DC if Gaikwad not fit in time, says Hussey
Chennai, April 4: Chennai Super Kings batting coach Michael Hussey has hinted at MS Dhoni leading the side in their IPL 2025 clash against Delhi Capitals at the MA Chidambaram Stadium on Saturday if regular skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad doesn't recover in time from his elbow injury.

Key Points

1

Gaikwad injured during RR match

2

Dhoni potential replacement captain

3

CSK facing top-order batting challenges

4

Conway may open with Ravindra

Gaikwad had taken a blow on his right forearm while trying to step down the pitch off Tushar Deshpande in the second over during CSK's defeat to Rajasthan Royals (RR) in Guwahati on Sunday. "I don't think we've actually thought about that (captaincy) too much. Well, I haven't thought about it too much."

"I'm sure Stephen Fleming (head coach) and Rutu have thought about that. But we've got some young guy coming through. He's behind the stumps. Maybe he can do a good job. I'm not sure. He's got a bit of experience in the role, so maybe he could do it. But I'm not exactly sure, to be honest," said Hussey in the pre-match press conference on Friday.

If Gaikwad isn't fit in time, then it means CSK will have to reshuffle its middle-order yet again. Devon Conway is the reserve top-order batting option and could open with Rachin Ravindra, with Rahul Tripathi coming at number three. Dhoni's last game as an IPL captain saw him lead CSK to a thrilling 2023 final win over Gujarat Titans in Ahmedabad.

CSK's top-order haven't posted big scores so far, but Hussey expressed faith in them coming good against DC, who are yet to lose a game in the competition. "I think we have come up against some pretty good bowling in the PowerPlay. We haven't been able to get off to those flying starts just yet."

"But I am still confident if we continue with the similar process, hopefully if the ball doesn't move around as much, we will be able to become more proactive. In other games and conditions, teams can take more risk if the ball is not swinging or bouncing as much."

"RCB utilised the extra pace and bounce very well and made it difficult for our batters. Against Rajasthan, they bowled really well with the new ball and put us under pressure. We would have liked to get off to a faster start, but I don't think we need to panic too much about it," he concluded.

Reader Comments

P
Priya K.
Dhoni as captain again would be a dream come true for CSK fans! 🥳 But I hope Ruturaj recovers soon - he's been doing great as the new leader. #WhistlePodu
R
Rahul S.
While I love Thala, I think CSK should stick with their long-term plan. Maybe give someone like Jadeja the captaincy for this match instead of going back to Dhoni?
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Anjali M.
The real issue here is our top order not performing. Captaincy is secondary - we need Conway and Rachin to fire! 💥
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Sanjay P.
Hussey's right about not panicking. It's early days in the tournament. But DC's bowling is strong - this will be a real test for our batsmen.
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Neha T.
Imagine the crowd reaction if Dhoni walks out for toss again! Chepauk would go absolutely wild!! 🤯💛
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Vikram J.
Respectfully disagree with Hussey's assessment - our batting approach in powerplays has been too conservative. Need to take more risks especially against teams like DC who are in form.

We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.

Tags:
IPL 2025 MS Dhoni Ruturaj Gaikwad Chennai Super Kings Delhi Capitals Michael Hussey
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