MS Dhoni Confirms Ruturaj Gaikwad’s Return Addresses CSK’s IPL 2025 Flop and 2026 Plans
MS Dhoni has confirmed Ruturaj Gaikwad’s return ahead of IPL 2026, offering hope after Chennai Super Kings’ dismal IPL 2025 campaign. The five-time champions finished at the bottom of the points table, managing just four wins from 14 matches. Dhoni, who took over the captaincy midway through the season due to Gaikwad’s injury, offered a detailed assessment of CSK’s performance and future direction at a private function.
Speaking candidly about the team’s problems, Dhoni highlighted batting concerns that derailed CSK’s season. He believes Gaikwad’s comeback will help stabilize the top order. “We are slightly worried about our batting order. But I think our batting order is quite sorted out now. Rutu (Gaikwad) will be coming back. He got injured. But he will be coming back. So, we are quite sorted now,” Dhoni said.
Gaikwad last played for CSK on April 8, 2025, against Punjab Kings in Mullanpur. After withdrawing from a planned stint with Yorkshire due to personal reasons, he has been named in the West Zone squad for the upcoming Duleep Trophy, indicating his return to full fitness and form.
IPL 2026 Auction Key to CSK’s Rebuild
The former India captain didn’t shy away from admitting that CSK has underperformed for two straight seasons. “Yes, the last couple of years have not been good for us. We have not been up to the mark. But what is important is for you to see the learnings. Yes, you had a bad season. But what went wrong? And that was the question for us last year also,” he reflected.
Dhoni also addressed the need for structural changes in the squad, with the IPL mini-auction scheduled for December. “I won’t say we (CSK) slacked off (in IPL 2025). But there were certain holes that we needed to plug in. A small auction is coming in December. Some loopholes are there, and we will try to plug those in,” he added.
Despite widespread speculation, Dhoni made no direct comment on whether he would play another season. After CSK’s final IPL 2025 match, he had said that he would evaluate his body’s recovery before taking a final call.
With Gaikwad’s return and fresh plans for the auction, CSK fans will be hopeful of a turnaround in IPL 2026.
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