Gaikwad Injury : Gaikwad Doubtful for CSK vs DC Clash: Will Dhoni Take Charge Again?
1. Introduction: Captaincy Concerns Ahead of CSK vs DC Clash
Chennai Super Kings (CSK) are facing an unexpected hurdle ahead of their home encounter against Delhi Capitals (DC) at the iconic MA Chidambaram Stadium on Saturday. Their newly appointed captain, Ruturaj Gaikwad, is under an injury cloud following an elbow blow sustained during CSK’s previous game against Rajasthan Royals (RR). With Gaikwad’s availability uncertain, fans are speculating whether the legendary MS Dhoni will return to lead CSK once again.
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2. Gaikwad’s Injury: How It Happened
Ruturaj Gaikwad’s injury occurred during CSK’s unsuccessful chase against Rajasthan Royals in Guwahati. In the second over, he advanced down the track to face Tushar Deshpande but misjudged the delivery. The ball struck his unprotected elbow, causing visible discomfort. Though Gaikwad received immediate treatment and bravely carried on to score a half-century, the injury has continued to bother him.
3. Latest Update: Batting Coach Mike Hussey Remains Hopeful
Speaking ahead of the crucial match against Delhi Capitals, CSK batting coach Mike Hussey provided a cautious update on Gaikwad’s condition. “Yeah, we’re hoping he’s going to try and have a bat today at training. The elbow is still a little bit sore but it’s improving every day,” Hussey said. Although optimism remains, CSK’s management is likely to make a last-minute call on his fitness.
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4. Dhoni’s Possible Return as CSK Captain
If Gaikwad is ruled out, the natural question arises—who will lead CSK? All eyes turn to MS Dhoni, the 43-year-old icon who has led the franchise since its inception in 2008. Hussey gave a tongue-in-cheek response about leadership plans: “We’ve got some young guy coming through. He’s behind the stumps. Maybe he can do a good job.” This indirect reference to Dhoni, who has been operating at limited capacity due to knee issues, has ignited excitement among fans about his potential return to the captaincy role—at least temporarily.
5. Dhoni’s Legacy as CSK Captain
MS Dhoni’s leadership is deeply embedded in CSK’s identity. Under his captaincy, the team has lifted the IPL trophy five times—most recently in 2023. He last led CSK in the final of that season, guiding them to a historic win. Although he handed over the reins to Gaikwad in 2025, Dhoni remains an influential figure within the squad. If called upon, it would be no surprise to see him marshal the troops once again.
6. Devon Conway Likely to Replace Gaikwad
Should Gaikwad sit out, CSK will need to make strategic changes to their top order. New Zealand’s Devon Conway, who had a productive 2023 season with CSK, appears to be the frontrunner to replace Gaikwad. Conway batted in the nets on Friday and is expected to open the innings, possibly with Rahul Tripathi. Rachin Ravindra may move down to No. 3, providing more flexibility in the lineup.
7. Impact on CSK’s Overseas Combination
Gaikwad’s absence could force CSK to shuffle their overseas picks. If Conway is brought into the XI, CSK may have to bench English all-rounder Jamie Overton due to the four-foreigner rule. In that case, Indian fast bowler Anshul Kamboj might be brought in to balance the squad, offering pace support in home conditions that favour spin and variation.
8. Limited Domestic Options in the Batting Department
CSK’s bench strength includes uncapped Indian players such as Shaik Rasheed (Andhra Pradesh), C. Andre Siddarth (Tamil Nadu), and Vansh Bedi (Delhi). However, none of them have IPL match experience. While promising, they might not be CSK’s first-choice replacements in such a critical fixture. Thus, CSK’s management would likely lean on the experienced Conway for stability at the top.
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9. Rising Star Ayush Mhatre Joins CSK Camp as Support
Mumbai’s teenage sensation Ayush Mhatre, who recently broke Yashasvi Jaiswal’s record for the youngest batter to score a 150+ in List A cricket, has joined CSK’s camp. However, his presence is reportedly unrelated to any injury issues. Mhatre is being groomed as a future prospect and may not feature in the playing XI just yet.
10. Strategic Implications for CSK
The uncertainty surrounding Gaikwad and potential changes to the XI could impact CSK’s game plan. The Chepauk pitch has traditionally supported spinners and slow bowlers, and CSK will want to exploit that advantage. However, losing their skipper and key opener might affect their momentum, especially against a Delhi Capitals side eager to climb the points table.
11. CSK’s Track Record at Chepauk
One silver lining for CSK is their exceptional record at home. The team has consistently dominated at MA Chidambaram Stadium, making it one of the toughest venues for visiting teams. Whether led by Dhoni or Gaikwad, CSK will look to maintain that home advantage in front of their passionate Chennai fans.
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12. Conclusion: Will the King Return One More Time?
As the anticipation builds ahead of the CSK vs DC clash, the big question remains—will MS Dhoni wear the captain’s hat again, if only for one night? With Gaikwad’s availability still up in the air, the prospect of Dhoni leading CSK once more has added a layer of intrigue to this contest. One thing is certain: if the legend steps up once again, the Chepauk crowd will erupt in a chorus of “Thala Dhoni” chants—just like the old times.
