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Dhoni To Be Replaced Behind Stumps In IPL 2025? Gaikwad Does Wicketkeeping In SMAT

Rajgeeta

Ruturaj Gaikwad donning wicket-keeping gloves [Source: @academy_dinda/X.com]Ruturaj Gaikwad donning wicket-keeping gloves [Source: @academy_dinda/X.com]

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Ruturaj Gaikwad, often hailed for his elegant batting, was seen trying his hand at wicket-keeping during the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy 2024. The 27-year-old, also leading the Maharashtra team in the tournament, donned the gloves during their match against Andhra on November 29, leaving fans speculating about his future role with CSK.

Gaikwad is often seen as a protégé of MS Dhoni, the Indian great. Under Dhoni’s guidance, Gaikwad has honed various skills, but his appearance behind the stumps sparked conversations about whether he could eventually take over as CSK’s wicket-keeper. Fans took to social media to debate if the franchise should consider Ruturaj Gaikwad for the role after Dhoni stepped away.

At 42, Dhoni continues to be a master behind the stumps, with lightning-quick reflexes and unmatched game awareness. While he didn’t bat much in IPL 2024, his contributions as a wicket-keeper remain crucial. However, with Gaikwad showing potential, CSK might have an option to groom him for the role in the future.

This wasn’t the first time Gaikwad was seen as a wicket-keeper. Earlier in the Maharashtra Premier League (MPL), while playing for Puneri Bappa, he stepped behind the stumps, surprising fans. It seems he is testing the waters in this new role, possibly adding another dimension to his game.

Ruturaj Gaikwad In SMAT 2024 So Far

Ruturaj Gaikwad hasn’t been at his best with the bat in the ongoing Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, scoring 20 runs in two innings with an impressive strike rate of 153.85. Despite his limited batting contributions, he continues to lead the Maharashtra side and will take charge of CSK in the upcoming IPL season.