Ruturaj Gaikwad clinching CSK captaincy from MS Dhoni was a pre-planned decision
Published - 09 Apr 2024, 10:39 AM | Updated - 23 Aug 2024, 10:29 PM
Many CSK and MS Dhoni fans were surprised by Ruturaj Gaikwad taking over CSK captaincy just a day ahead of IPL 2024. However, if we go by Ruturaj Gaikwad’s latest comments, his captaincy was a pre-planned decision. After defeating Kolkata Knight Riders in Match 22 of IPL 2024 on Monday, the new CSK skipper revealed that his captaincy was planned two years ago in 2022.
Chennai Super Kings have got a decent start under skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad, who has led the side under MS Dhoni's shadows. CSK have won 3 matches out of 5 in IPL 2024. With 6 points, they grab the 4th spot in the points table.
Notably, CSK's dominance on their home soil continues in IPL 2024. The men-in-yellow have won all of their three games at home this season. In their previous clash at home, the five-time champions outplayed Kolkata Knight Riders by 7 wickets.
Also Read: Watch: Vaibhav Arora takes revenge as he castles Shivam Dube after being smoked for six
Mahi Bhai told me to be ready for captaincy in 2022- Ruturaj Gaikwad
Post the victory over KKR, CSK skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad revealed that MS Dhoni told him in the 2022 season that he might have to take the captaincy in the future. The CSK legend also asked Gaikwad to be prepared for the role.
"In 2022, Mahi Bhai told me that you might get a chance to lead, maybe not next year but later - so be ready, last year Fleming & me used to talk about captaincy after each game, one on one talks about what I will do at that stage, my plans & thoughts", the right-handed batter said during post-match press conference.
Also Read: "I am glad this happened" - Shreyas Iyer's shocking reaction after 7-wicket thrashing against CSK
Felt it was my responsibility to stay till the end: Gaikwad on 50 vs KKR
Ruturaj Gaikwad struggled to score well in the first four games of IPL 2024. However, in the previous CSK vs KKR clash, he was at his best and smacked his first half-century of the season. The CSK skipper slammed an unbeaten 67 as they chased down 138-run target with ease. Speaking about his fifty, Gaikwad said it was his responsibility to bring the team home in Ajinkya Rahane's absence.
"Little nostalgic for me. Remember my first fifty in IPL, Mahi bhai was with me and we finished the match in same situation. With Jinks slightly injured, I felt it was my responsibility to stay till the end on a wicket which was slightly tricky. Was a 150-160 wicket - if you rotate a little bit and look for boundaries. Wasn't a six-hitting pitch”, the 27-year-old said.
He also added that he doesn't need to guide other teammates as everyone is in a great headspace under MS Dhoni and Stephen Fleming.
“It is what we've been following through the years. Jaddu always comes after the powerplay. With this team I don't need to tell things to anyone. Everyone is in great headspace. You have Mahi bhai still there, you have Fleming still there", the CSK opener concluded.
Meanwhile, CSK will clash with Mumbai Indians in their next encounter on Sunday, April 14. The Ruturaj Gaikwad & Co. will travel to Mumbai to face their biggest rivals in the away match. Hardik Pandya leads Mumbai Indians in IPL 2024.
Read PBKS vs SRH Match Articels
About the Author
Vikas Singh Derek has been working for Cricketaddictor since February 2021. He has written over 12,0... Read more
