In a stunning flip of occasions, the legendary captain MS Dhoni has determined to step away from the management position on the Chennai Tremendous Kings (CSK) simply earlier than the graduation of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024.
This surprising transfer has paved the way in which for star batter Ruturaj Gaikwad to imagine the captaincy obligations for the five-time champions CSK, a choice that has been formally confirmed by the franchise on Thursday (March 21).
Ruturaj Gaikwad’s captaincy marks a brand new period for CSK
The IPL 2024 is poised to kick off on March 22 with an electrifying showdown between the defending champion CSK and Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) on the iconic M.A. Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai. This extremely anticipated conflict not solely signifies the graduation of the match but in addition heralds a brand new period for the CSK, with former skipper Dhoni entrusting the captaincy duties to Gaikwad. This pivotal second marks a big transition for each the distinguished match and the formidable CSK franchise.
MS Dhoni’s legacy
Underneath Dhoni’s illustrious management, CSK etched their identify in cricketing historical past by clinching a document 5 IPL titles and two Champions League T20 trophies. Moreover, the franchise showcased outstanding consistency by qualifying for playoffs in a formidable 12 IPL seasons and that includes within the IPL finals 10 instances out of the 14 seasons they’ve participated in up to now. Dhoni’s captaincy legacy is additional highlighted by his outstanding tenure, main the facet in 226 IPL matches and rising victorious in an astounding 133 encounters, solidifying his standing as one of the profitable captains in cricketing historical past.
Additionally READ: IPL 2024: Broadcast, stay streaming particulars – When and The place to observe in India, US, UK, Canada & different international locations
CEO Kasi Viswanathan’s insights
CSK CEO Kasi Viswanathan revealed that the change in management got here as a shock, with the announcement made simply earlier than the scheduled captain’s assembly on Thursday. He emphasised the significance of respecting Dhoni’s determination, stating that it was made in the most effective curiosity of the workforce. Viswanathan reiterated that it was solely Dhoni’s name to cross on the management position to Gaikwad, underscoring the franchise’s dedication to supporting Dhoni’s judgment and guaranteeing a easy transition in management.
“No matter Dhoni does, it’s in the most effective curiosity of the workforce. I bought to know of the choice simply earlier than the captains’ assembly. It’s important to respect his determination, it’s his name,” Viswanathan was quoted as saying by the PTI.
Stephen Fleming’s clarification
Stephen Fleming, the top coach of CSK since 2009, emphasised that the choice to relinquish the captaincy was solely Dhoni’s.
“It was MS, with a whole lot of consideration and a view to the longer term on the again of a great final season. The timing was good. Behind the scenes, Ruturaj and others have been going by means of captaincy grooming programs, particularly for days like this. When the chance comes up, MS is the most effective choose,” Fleming stated.
