Cricketing legend MS Dhoni has decided to step down from his role as captain, passing the torch to Ruturaj Gaikwad for the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 season.
CSK made the announcement ahead of the IPL season opener, indicating a significant change in leadership.
The decision was confirmed via a statement released on CSK’s official website, expressing gratitude for Dhoni’s captaincy tenure and excitement for Gaikwad’s new role.
Ruturaj Gaikwad, who joined CSK in 2019 and has since played 52 matches for the team, will now lead the squad into the highly anticipated IPL 2024 season.
Gaikwad’s elevation to captaincy marks a notable moment in his career trajectory, having showcased consistent performance and dedication on the field.
Gaikwad’s IPL journey commenced in 2020, and he swiftly established himself as a vital asset for CSK. In the 2023 season, Gaikwad impressed with 590 runs in 16 games, boasting an impressive strike rate of 147.50.
Additionally, he has represented India in six ODIs and 19 T20s, further solidifying his credentials as a capable leader.
The decision comes amidst preparations for the defending champions’ first match against Royal Challengers Bangalore, led by Faf du Plessis.
While Dhoni’s captaincy tenure saw CSK clinch the IPL trophy five times, Gaikwad’s appointment signals a new chapter in the team’s journey, with expectations high for the upcoming season.
MS Dhoni’s legacy extends beyond his contributions to CSK, as he is widely regarded as one of India’s most successful cricket captains.
Under his leadership, India achieved historic victories in major tournaments, including the ICC T20 World Cup 2007, ICC Cricket World Cup 2011, and ICC Champions Trophy 2013.
As fans eagerly anticipate the IPL 2024 season, all eyes will be on Ruturaj Gaikwad as he takes on the responsibility of leading CSK on the field.
With a talented squad at his disposal, Gaikwad’s leadership promises an exciting journey for the team and its supporters.
CSK Squad for IPL 2024:
1. MS Dhoni
2. Moeen Ali
3. Deepak Chahar
4. Tushar Deshpande
5. Shivam Dube
6. Ruturaj Gaikwad (C)
7. Rajvardhan Hangargekar
8. Ravindra Jadeja
9. Ajay Mandal
10. Mukesh Choudhary
11. Ajinkya Rahane
12. Shaik Rasheed
13. Mitchell Santner
14. Simarjeet Singh
15. Nishant Sindhu
16. Prashant Solanki
17. Maheesh Theekshana
18. Rachin Ravindra
19. Shardul Thakur
20. Daryl Mitchell
21. Sameer Rizvi
22. Mustafizur Rahman
23. Avanish Rao Aravelly.
With this revamped lineup and a new captain at the helm, CSK enthusiasts await the unfolding of yet another thrilling IPL season, filled with unforgettable cricketing moments and fierce competition on the field.