Daijiworld Media Network - Chennai
Chennai, Apr 4: Chennai Super Kings (CSK) may see a leadership change for their upcoming IPL clash against Delhi Capitals (DC) at Chepauk on Saturday, as skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad remains a doubtful starter due to an elbow injury.
The CSK captain took a blow to his unprotected elbow while facing Rajasthan Royals’ pacer Tushar Deshpande during their previous match in Guwahati. Although Gaikwad was present at training on Friday, he only participated in a light session with under-arm throwdowns.
Batting coach Mike Hussey provided an update during the pre-match press conference. "Yeah, it’s still a little sore but improving every day. We’re hopeful he’ll be fine for tomorrow," Hussey said. On the possibility of a stand-in skipper, he hinted at Dhoni without confirmation: "He’s got experience behind the stumps, maybe he could do it."
If Gaikwad doesn’t recover in time, legendary wicketkeeper-batsman MS Dhoni is expected to step in as captain once again. The 43-year-old, who led CSK to their fifth IPL title in 2023, had handed over the reins to Gaikwad at the start of the 2025 season.
Dhoni, who is nursing chronic knee issues, has been playing in a limited role this season. Head coach Stephen Fleming had earlier remarked that Dhoni was managing his fitness carefully and not batting for extended periods.
With Gaikwad potentially out, CSK might reshuffle their top order. Devon Conway is likely to partner Rahul Tripathi as opener, with Rachin Ravindra moving to No. 3. Such changes could also affect the bowling combination, possibly forcing CSK to bench Jamie Overton in favour of Indian pacer Anshul Kamboj.
Among the bench, Indian batters Shaik Rasheed, C Andre Siddarth, and Vansh Bedi remain backup options, although none have featured in an IPL match yet.
CSK, currently striving for consistency, will be looking to regain momentum with or without their captain on the field.