MS Dhoni Returns as CSK Captain: In a major development that has electrified the cricketing world, MS Dhoni is set to return as captain of the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) following an injury to current skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad. The 43-year-old legend, who previously led CSK from 2008 to 2024, will once again take the reins of the franchise he guided to five IPL titles.
Dhoni’s comeback to leadership comes at a crucial time. The Super Kings are currently struggling in IPL 2025, having won only one of their five matches, languishing at ninth place in the 10-team standings. With Gaikwad sidelined due to injury, CSK management had little hesitation in turning back to the man who built the legacy of the “Yellow Army” over the last decade and a half.
Despite stepping down from captaincy ahead of the season, Dhoni has remained an influential figure on and off the field. His presence in the dressing room, calm under pressure, and tactical sharpness have always been his trademarks qualities that CSK desperately need during this turbulent stretch of the tournament.
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MS Dhoni Returns as CSK Captain — The Comeback of a Tactical Genius
While concerns have been raised about Dhoni’s physical fitness particularly regarding his chronic knee issues head coach Stephen Fleming has reassured fans that the veteran still plays a vital role. “He will gauge on the day what he can give us,” Fleming said. “He’s too valuable, especially from a leadership standpoint, to hold back. If the game’s in the balance, he might come in earlier, but he knows when to back others too.”
Even at 43, Dhoni is proving his worth with the bat. He has averaged 51.50 this season, a figure made even more impressive by his ability to finish unbeaten in crucial moments. With a strike rate of 153.73 and two top scores of 30, he continues to display flashes of the finisher that once terrified bowlers across the globe.
His return to captaincy has also put the brakes on the swirling retirement rumors that caught fire after his parents were spotted at CSK’s recent loss to Delhi Capitals, fueling speculation that this could be his farewell season. However, the veteran’s leadership call-up signals that Dhoni isn’t done just yet and CSK’s fans are more than happy to ride with him again.
The franchise’s loyal supporters have flooded social media with excitement, rallying behind their captain with trending hashtags like #ThalaBack and #DhoniReturns. The move is expected to inject fresh energy into the squad and potentially spark a mid-season resurgence.
As CSK prepares for their next game, all eyes will be on Dhoni not just to wield the bat, but to bring back the tactical brilliance, sharp instincts, and winning mentality that defined the golden era of Chennai Super Kings.
