Ruturaj Gaikwad disclosed that MS Dhoni had made suggestions regarding the leadership change as early as last year, the day after he was named captain of the Chennai Super Kings for the 2024 Indian Premier League. Gaikwad took over as captain of CSK on Thursday, replacing Dhoni, as the storied MSD readied itself for its farewell. The fact that Gaikwad has been groomed as the next man in charge and given the role suggests that Dhoni will be all but done, even though nothing has been made official and Dhoni is likely to play every match. Dhoni therefore knew in the back of his mind that this is the ideal moment to make way for someone new in order to guarantee a smooth transition.
It’s interesting to note that earlier this month, when Dhoni announced his “new role” on Facebook, he may have given away the biggest clue online. However, rumours were dispelled when it turned out to be a commercial. Or at least that’s what everyone thought. According to reports from yesterday, Dhoni told the players and management of his decision just before the players’ meeting and photo shoot. Gaikwad was aware of this, having noticed small details leading up to the match eve.
“I don’t believe there is anything I should change. Mahi bhai had made passing references to captaincy earlier in the previous year. Simply said, “Be prepared.” That shouldn’t be shocking. Additionally, he forced me to participate in a few of the practice match simulations when he arrived at the camp. He mentioned the ‘new role’ on social media, I seem to recall. I was the only one being pointed at and asked if I was the next captain. He knew in the back of his mind that it might mean something different. ‘I’ve decided this and this,’ he said. But now that I’m here, I’m excited about it,” Gaikwad stated in a video that the IPL had posted.
From allies to rivals
The list of new captains for this season now includes CSK’s bombshell. Shubman Gill will be in charge of the Gujarat Titans, while Hardik Pandya will oversee the Mumbai Indians. In the Punjab Kings camp, Jitesh Sharma was even named as a last-minute substitute for Shikhar Dhawan. However, Gaikwad’s appointment continues to be the main topic. He will share space with Faf du Plessis, his CSK teammate in 2021, when he walks out for the toss. It’s funny how the IPL operates—from having the same dressing room to having opposing captains now.
“I was telling Faf at the meeting that I had gone to the toss, and I thought it was unbelievable that two years ago you would be leading RCB and that we would be sharing the stage. One of the most thrilling opening-day games, in my opinion, and there’s a lot to look forward to,” Gaikwad continued.
It feels fantastic to be a part of this amazing franchise. Here is where I began my IPL career, and I am grateful that MS Dhoni trusted me with a leadership position. That says a lot. But there’s still work to be done. I was impressed with this franchise’s operation from the beginning and learned the true secret to its success from it. Mahi bhai or the management does what the players do.”
