What will MS Dhoni do with Ruturaj Gaikwad? Former Punjab Kings coach launches a scathing attack on former CSK captain

Former India batsman and First-class legend Wasim Jaffer has questioned the legendary MS Dhoni for his abrupt decision to relinquish CSK captaincy just a day before they start their title defense. It was confirmed yesterday that Dhoni will step down from the leadership role with opening batsman Ruturaj Gaikwad set to take over as captain from this season onwards.

That particular decision sent a major shockwave in and around the cricketing fraternity all around the world. There were speculations about MS Dhoni possibly leading the Chennai Super Kings in what is touted to be the 5-time IPL winning captain’s final season in the richest T20 league of the world. While many feel that it’s a good decision by Dhoni in terms of passing the baton to Gaikwad Wasim Jaffer is unable to understand the decision whatsoever.

Wasim Jaffer feels Gaikwad has big shoes to fill for MS Dhoni

While speaking exclusively to ESPNcricinfo after MS Dhoni’s removal from captaincy was confirmed, Wasim Jaffer could not figure out why the decision was made. It would have made sense to him if Dhoni had retired from the IPL circuit but since he will still be playing this season, Ruturaj Gaikwad has got some very big shoes to fill.

The 27-year-old was anyway being backed to take over the role from MS Dhoni but only after the latter’s retirement. But now that he will lead CSK from match 1 against Royal Challengers Bangalore later today, Jaffer has advised him to be ready for a difficult phase in his career.

“No, I don’t think so. I think it would have made more sense if MS Dhoni was not around. He had retired and he was not around. It would have made any captain’s life a lot easier. Now, with MS Dhoni being around, it always makes a job a lot more difficult for any captain.” – Wasim Jaffer told ESPNcricinfo.

Jaffer claimed that he knew Ruturaj Gaikwad would have been the one to succeed MS Dhoni but it wasn’t required this season. We all saw what happened 2 seasons ago. Ravindra Jadeja was appointed as captain before the start of IPL 2022 and CSK was in sheer desperation to win games. It all came back to Dhoni’s hands when Jadeja stepped down just after 8 games which saw him win just 2 and lose 6 matches. So, now that Gaikwad is going to lead the team, Jaffer thinks he will not find it any easier.

“Whether he takes any decision and whether Dhoni agrees to it or not. Whether he likes those decisions. And you are on your own, and we all know that Ruturaj Gaikwad would have been the successor. But I think if Dhoni was not around, it would have made a lot more easier.” – Jaffer concluded.

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