Ruturaj Gaikwad to Continue as CSK Captain in 2026, Says MS Dhoni

Former Indian captain MS Dhoni has confirmed Ruturaj Gaikwad’s return as captain in the IPL 2026 season. Gaikwad was ruled out for the current season due to an elbow injury.

MS Dhoni finished his duty as the stand-in captain of the Chennai Super Kings on Sunday in their clash against the Gujarat Titans. He confirmed that Ruturaj Gaikwad will return as CSK’s regular captain next year.

‘When Rutu comes back next season…’

IPL 2025 was the Chennai Super Kings’ most underwhelming season yet, with them finishing last in the points table. However, they ended their season on a positive note with a massive 83-run win over the Gujarat Titans.

This victory highlighted the team’s potential for their future, with young players and new leadership stepping up. After the match, fans waited for Dhoni to address his future in the league. While he didn’t mention whether he’ll play next year, he did confirm Gaikwad’s resumption as CSK’s captain in 2026.

“Yes there are a few holes that we’d like to fill but one of the most important things was when Rutu comes back next season at least we are able to give him a team where he just needs to fit in 1 in the playing XI. He doesn’t have to worry about too many things,” Dhoni said at the post-match presentation.

CSK’s Early Setback

Chennai suffered a big blow early in the season when their captain had to drop out due to an injury. Even MS Dhoni stepping up as captain could not change things. They were the first team to get eliminated from the playoff race and ended this season at the bottom of the standings.

However, the match highlighted young talent who will play next year for CSK and help them get another title.

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