IPL 2024: Ruturaj Gaikwad named new captain for Chennai Super Kings, replaces MS Dhoni

In a significant development for Chennai Super Kings (CSK) fans worldwide, opener Ruturaj Gaikwad has stepped into the shoes of MS Dhoni as the new captain of the franchise for the upcoming IPL 2024 season. This announcement was made official by the IPL's social media handle, marking a notable shift in leadership for one of the most successful teams in the tournament's history.

The veteran cricketer MS Dhoni, aged 42, has led CSK to an impressive five IPL titles, with the most recent triumph occurring last year by defeating the Gujarat Titans in a thrilling final at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. Following this victory, Dhoni put to rest speculations about his retirement, affirming his return for IPL 2024.

Ruturaj Gaikwad, a talented right-handed batsman, has been a consistent performer for CSK since joining the squad in the 2019 IPL auction. His remarkable form and composed batting style have earned him recognition as one of the team's key opening batters. Gaikwad's standout performance in the IPL 2023 season, where he amassed 590 runs in 16 appearances, underscored his potential to lead the team into the future.

The decision to appoint Gaikwad as captain comes with the backing of former India cricketer Suresh Raina, who shares a close bond with Dhoni and views Gaikwad as an ideal candidate to lead CSK post-Dhoni's era. Raina emphasized the significance of the IPL 2024 season for CSK, considering it a pivotal period for the team to strategize and plan for the future under new leadership.

While CSK has faced challenges with captaincy transitions in the past, notably in the 2022 IPL season when Ravindra Jadeja relinquished the role after just eight games, Dhoni's guidance both on and off the field is expected to facilitate a smooth transition. Gaikwad, with Dhoni's mentorship, is poised to lead CSK into a new chapter, building upon the legacy established by one of cricket's greatest leaders.

With an illustrious IPL career comprising 250 matches, Dhoni has amassed 5,082 runs at an impressive average of 38.79, including 24 half-centuries. As CSK gears up to defend their title in the IPL 2024, commencing with a clash against the Royal Challengers Bangalore on March 22 at Chepauk, all eyes will be on Gaikwad as he embraces the captaincy role, aiming to steer the team to further success in the fiercely competitive landscape of the IPL.