Chennai Super Kings (CSK) is one of the most successful teams in the Indian Premier League's (IPL) history, known for its consistent performance, loyal fan base, and culture of excellence. Owned by India Cements, the team plays its home matches at the M.A. Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai, also known as Chepauk.
Under the leadership of MS Dhoni, CSK has won the IPL title five times (2010, 2011, 2018, 2021, and 2023). The team's success is often attributed to Dhoni's cool nature, strategic foresight, and ability to get the best out of his players.
The team's colours are yellow and blue, and their jersey, predominantly yellow, has become iconic in the cricketing world. The fan base of CSK, affectionately known as the "Yellow Army" or "Whistle Podu Army," is among the most passionate and vocal in the IPL.
Chennai Super Kings current captain MS Dhoni [x.com]
The leadership of the CSK in the IPL has seen just three individuals take the helm with MS Dhoni leading the side for the most part. Here’s the Chennai Super Kings captains list.
Player
Span
Matches
Won
Lost
Tied/No Result
Winning Percentage
MS Dhoni
2008-Present
235
142
90
1/2
61.15
Suresh Raina
2010-2019
6
2
3
1/0
41.66
Ravindra Jadeja
2022-2022
8
2
6
0/0
25.00
Ruturaj Gaikwad
2024-
14
7
7
0
50
MS Dhoni
MS Dhoni, who is been captaining CSK from its inception in 2008 is the main reason behind the team's spirit and success. Under his leadership, CSK played 235 matches, winning 142 of them, which translates to a whopping win percentage of 61.15%.
Although he relinquished the captaincy during IPL 2022, he came back at the helm after Ravindra Jadeja stepped down. Dhoni's leadership saw CSK clinching the IPL title five times, solidifying his status as one of the league's most successful captains.
Suresh Raina
Suresh Raina, often referred to as "Mr. IPL" for his prolific run-scoring in the league, took on the captaincy role in Dhoni's absence for a total of 6 matches between 2010 and 2019. Under his captaincy, CSK won 2 games and lost 3, with one match ending in a tie, resulting in a win percentage of 41.66%.
Raina's leadership was highlighted by his aggressive batting style and energetic fielding, although his brief stint as captain didn't allow for a larger impact comparable to Dhoni's tenure. Nonetheless, Raina's contributions to CSK as a player have been invaluable, making him a vital part of the team's core over the years.
Ravindra Jadeja
Ravindra Jadeja, known for his precision with the ball, electrifying fielding, and handy batting, was appointed captain for the 2022 season. His tenure was short-lived, covering just 8 matches with 2 wins and 6 losses, reflecting a win percentage of 25.00%.
Despite his exceptional skills as a player, Jadeja's captaincy period was challenging, indicating the difficulties faced in transitioning into the leadership role amidst the high expectations set by his predecessors. His time as captain might not have mirrored the success seen under Dhoni, but Jadeja remains a key player for CSK, contributing significantly on the field.
Ruturaj Gaikwad
Ruturaj Gaiwkad is the current captain of the Chennai Super Kings. The Indian batter was handed over the captaincy after MS Dhoni stepped down the from the role ahead of IPL 2024.
Chennai Super Kings Coach
Former New Zealand captain, Stephen Fleming has been the head coach of the Chennai Super Kings since 2009, following a brief stint as a player for the team in the inaugural IPL season in 2008. Known for his strategic brilliance and cool temperament, Fleming has been instrumental in shaping the team's successes over the years. His partnership with captain MS Dhoni is often cited as one of the most successful coach-captain combinations in the history of the tournament.
Under his guidance, CSK has clinched the IPL title five times, showcasing a consistent performance across seasons. Fleming's coaching philosophy highlights team balance, the importance of key player roles, and the strategic use of resources, which has allowed CSK to thrive in various conditions and against different opponents.
Before his coaching career, Fleming had an illustrious international cricket career with New Zealand, known for his batting and leadership skills. His transition from an international player to a successful coach has been seamless, making him one of the most revered figures in the cricketing fraternity.
Chennai Super Kings Squad: FAQs
Q.1. Who was the most expensive player bought by CSK in the IPL 2025 auction?
Answer: Noor Ahmad was the most expensive acquisition for CSK in the IPL 2025 auction, picked for INR 10 crore.
Q.2. How many IPL titles has CSK won?
Answer: Chennai Super Kings has won the IPL title five times (2010, 2011, 2018, and 2021 & 2023).
Q.3. How many captains has CSK had over the years?
Answer: CSK has had four captains till date – MS Dhoni, Suresh Raina, Ravindra Jadeja, and Ruturaj Gaikwad