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MS Dhoni's successor in CSK captaincy (Source: Twitter)
Chennai Super Kings (CSK), who had a lacklustre Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022 season, have rediscovered their form this year and are presently sixth in the rankings with four points from four games, including two victories and two losses. This year, Ruturaj Gaikwad has been essential to CSK's effort. The opener is now fourth in the IPL 2023 Orange Cap race after scoring 197 runs in four games with a top score of 92.
The 26-year-old also took home the Orange Cap in 2021 after smashing 635 runs in 16 games, with a best score of 101*. The international player for India will be looking to build on his performance this year and pursue a surprise spot in the team for the ODI World Cup.
'Stokes has to play really well for CSK this year' – Kedar Jadhav
After MS Dhoni leaves the IPL, Gaikwad might be a contender for the captaincy due to his form and consistency for CSK. The team also boasts previous skipper Ravindra Jadeja in addition to Ben Stokes, who is seen as Dhoni's replacement.
Former CSK player Kedar Jadhav asserted audaciously that Gaikwad 'might become captain after Dhoni' in a JioCinema interview. Jadhav believed that the fact that Gaikwad is more accessible than Stokes may play a significant role. "I think Ruturaj Gaikwad could be the captain of CSK after MS Dhoni. Ben Stokes is also another potential captain, along with Ravindra Jadeja. But for that, Stokes has to play really well for CSK this year. Availability is another issue. So I think Ruturaj Gaikwad is the best option to captain CSK after MS Dhoni", said Jadhav.
Before the IPL 2022, Dhoni had previously given Jadeja the captaincy. Still, the all-rounder had to stand down due to the team's dismal performance, forcing the wicketkeeper-batter to assume control again. Despite the previous season, CSK is in great shape and intends to contend for the crown. Next, in the IPL 2023, CSK are set to play RCB in the 'Southern Derby' to be hosted by the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru.