MS Dhoni has returned as the captain of the Chennai Super Kings (CSK). The former Indian captain will lead the five-time champions for the remainder of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025, following Ruturaj Gaikwad's withdrawal from the tournament due to a hairline fracture in his elbow. However, former Indian cricketer Robin Uthappa believes it is unrealistic to expect Dhoni to resolve all the team's issues, given the numerous deficiencies within the squad.

Currently, CSK is positioned ninth in the points table, having accumulated only two points after suffering four consecutive losses. As they prepare to face the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai on Friday, the team urgently requires a victory to revive their campaign.

Uthappa emphasizes the need for the management to find a replacement for Ruturaj Gaikwad in the batting lineup. He suggested that Rahul Tripathi could step in to bat at No. 3 in the right-hander's role.

“I don’t believe that Dhoni's return as captain will automatically change CSK's fortunes. There are significant gaps in the team, right? How do you address that? How do you compensate for a reliable batter like Rutu, who appears to be the only one in form?” Uthappa remarked on JioHotstar after the match between Delhi Capitals and Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB).

“We have Devon Conway, who demonstrated some form in the last game against Punjab, scoring 69* before being retired out. Rachin has been somewhat inconsistent since the IPL commenced. I think Rahul Tripathi will need to step in at number three right now,” he added.

'So many moving pieces

Uthappa also mentioned that Sam Curran might be included in the playing XI due to Gaikwad's absence. Nevertheless, he believes that the path ahead will be challenging for one of the most successful franchises in the IPL.

“Who will they substitute to accommodate Ruturaj, and what level of performance can be expected? Will Sam Curran return to the lineup? There are numerous factors at play, and much will be clarified tomorrow. But will this be sufficient to rekindle CSK’s aspirations in this season?” Uthappa stated.

On Thursday evening, CSK head coach Stephen Fleming announced that Gaikwad has been sidelined for the tournament. The right-handed batsman sustained an elbow injury during the match against Rajasthan Royals in Guwahati. However, he managed to participate in the subsequent two matches against Delhi Capitals and Punjab Kings.

MS Dhoni last captained CSK during their title-winning season in 2023. In 2024, he handed over the captaincy to Gaikwad.

Read Also: MS Dhoni Returns as CSK Captain After Ruturaj Gaikwad’s Injury Ahead of IPL 2025

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