Before the IPL, the news of MS Dhoni’s departure from CSK brings tears to teammates, leaving no dry eye in the dressing room
On the eve of their opening match in IPL 2024 against RCB, MS Dhoni and CSK announced Ruturaj Gaikwad as the franchise’s new captain.
With MS Dhoni, you never know what to expect. In 2015, then 2019, and now 2024, surprises seem to follow him closely. He surprised everyone once again by resigning as captain of Chennai Super Kings. Just before the 17th edition of the IPL began, Dhoni and CSK shocked fans by naming Ruturaj Gaikwad as their new skipper. Despite some signs, the announcement still came as a significant blow, marking the end of an era.
At least, that was the situation within the CSK camp. Coach Stephen Fleming disclosed that the decision was solely made by Dhoni, yet it left many individuals feeling emotional. However, the team is genuinely thrilled for Gaikwad’s new role as captain and eagerly anticipates the beginning of a new, hopefully prosperous chapter.
“When Dhoni shared the news, it stirred up a lot of emotions. Tears were shed by many, and there wasn’t a single person with dry eyes in the dressing room. It deeply affected everyone. Unlike the last time when CSK changed captains, we were not as ready for MS to step down and for a shift in leadership,” Fleming remarked.
“There were also expressions of congratulations directed towards Ruturaj. While he may not be the most outspoken individual, he possesses the qualities needed to guide us in the correct direction.”
This isn’t the first instance of CSK making a captaincy change from Dhoni. They attempted a similar move in 2022 when Ravindra Jadeja took over, but had to revert due to a poor start to the season. Despite the setback, Dhoni led them to victory the following year. Fleming acknowledges that two years ago, CSK wasn’t prepared for the shift, but feels more confident about Gaikwad’s leadership this time.
“Well, a couple of years ago, the significant aspect was that we likely weren’t prepared for MS to step down,” Fleming commented. “It shook us as a leadership group and coaches, making us consider the possibility of his eventual departure. Until then, it seemed almost unimaginable, but it planted the idea. So, we’ve put in considerable effort to ensure that any errors from that time aren’t repeated, and that leadership isn’t a mystery.”
Dhoni initially disclosed his decision to step down to his teammates and the CSK support staff, leaving them stunned, before proceeding to inform the management.
MS Dhoni is generally viewed as a standout amongst the best players in the Indian Premier League. The wicketkeeper-batsman, as Read more
The picture of that MS Dhoni-Rohit Sharma moment went instantly viral on social media. A famished Rohit Sharma put up Read more
Punjab Kings were appreciated for foxing MS Dhoni with a dose of 'his own medicine'. After going unbeaten for seven Read more
