In a major development ahead of their high-voltage clash against Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) on April 11, Chennai Super Kings (CSK) have suffered a massive blow as Ruturaj Gaikwad has been ruled out of the remainder of IPL 2025 due to an elbow injury. The news has paved the way for the return of the legendary MS Dhoni as CSK captain for the rest of the season.

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The Maharashtra batter sustained a hairline fracture in the radial neck of his elbow during CSK’s match against Rajasthan Royals at the Barsapara Stadium in Guwahati. He was hit by a delivery from Tushar Deshpande. Although he played two matches afterward recent scans confirmed that the injury had worsened forcing him out of the tournament.

“He got hit in Guwahati. He's been operating with an amount of pain,” CSK head coach Stephen Fleming revealed in a press interaction in Chennai. “An X-ray was inconclusive, but an MRI showed a fracture. We feel for him and appreciate his effort.”

In a move that has thrilled fans across the globe MS Dhoni is all set to lead CSK once again a role he knows like the back of his hand. The five-time IPL-winning skipper will take charge starting from the game against KKR and continue as captain for the remainder of the 2025 season.

“We have an uncapped player, MS Dhoni, who will take over as captain,” Fleming joked with a smile, reminding everyone of Dhoni’s legendary status.

Despite this unfortunate setback the CSK management has thrown their full support behind Gaikwad and is optimistic about his recovery ahead of India’s domestic season later this year. His absence will surely be felt but the return of Dhoni as captain has reignited hopes for another deep playoff run for the Men in Yellow.