MS Dhoni is the biggest crowd puller in the history of the game, which everyone saw in the recently concluded Indian Premier League. The CSK captain was welcomed by the fans in packed stadiums wherever he played in the IPL 2023. He also led his team to a record fifth IPL title, beating the Gujarat Titans in the final.
CSK has now won the joint-most five IPL titles, equaling Mumbai Indians’ record. Without a doubt, MS Dhoni has been the best Indian skipper at the international level, and he is doing the same in the IPL.
But the biggest question is who will replace MS Dhoni for the Chennai Super Kings. Though the captain confirmed that he will be playing another season for the fans and will be back in 2024. But who will lead the team after him? Former CSK star Ambati Rayudu, who retired from the IPL after 2023, was named Dhoni’s successor.
Ben Stokes was signed by CSK at a price of INR 16.25 crore. Many thought that the prime reason for signing Stokes was to make him the next captain. However, in an interview with BehindWoods TV, When asked about the possible next CSK captain, Rayudu picked Ruturaj Gaikwad as the front-runner.
He added, “Coming to the future, I think Ruturaj has a great chance. He has those leadership qualities in him. So if Mahi bhai grooms him say a year or so, then he can lead the team for 7-8 or even 10 years. He is in good hands with Mahi bhai and Fleming.”
Furthermore, he stated that India should use Gaikwad better, but they are not doing it right now. Rayudu reckons that Gaikwad should play all three formats for India. Notably, the BCCI has appointed the CSK opener as India’s captain to lead the country in the upcoming Asian Games 2023. He is also part of the ongoing Test series against the West Indies. Gaikwad is a consistent performer for Chennai and possible captaincy material.
