'It Was His...': CSK Coach Fleming On MS Dhoni's 'Big' Captaincy Call 

Ruturaj Gaikwad and Shubman GillRuturaj Gaikwad and Shubman Gill

MS Dhoni, the stalwart captain of Chennai Super Kings (CSK), would be stepping down from his leadership role just before the IPL 2024 season. This monumental decision marks the end of an era for CSK, with Dhoni having led the team since the inception of the Indian Premier League, securing an impressive five championship titles along the way, matching the record set by Rohit Sharma of Mumbai Indians.

Replacing a figure as iconic as Dhoni is no small feat, but the responsibility falls to Ruturaj Gaikwad, a promising talent within the CSK ranks. The announcement of Gaikwad's ascension to captaincy came following his attendance at the captains' meeting in Chennai, setting the stage for a new chapter in CSK's history.



In a press conference preceding their match against RCB, CSK head coach Stephen Fleming shed light on the decision-making process behind the captaincy change. 

Here's what he said:

"It was MS Dhoni's call with lot of consideration looking at the future. The timing was good. It'll be a grooming process for Ruturaj."

Fleming's words reflect the strategic foresight and confidence in the team's future that Dhoni possesses. While Gaikwad steps into this leadership role, it's evident that he will have the backing and mentorship of a cricketing legend.

As defending champions, CSK faces the challenge of maintaining their winning streak under new leadership, starting with their upcoming match against RCB at Chepauk. All eyes will be on Gaikwad as he leads the Yellow Army into this new era of CSK cricket.