Don’t think MS Dhoni is going to automatically turn the tide for CSK: Robin Uthappa

On Thursday, April 10, MS Dhoni took over as Chennai Super Kings' (CSK) captain for the remainder of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 after Ruturaj Gaikwad was ruled out due to an elbow injury.

Dhoni is the joint-most successful captain in IPL history. He has led CSK to five titles, the last of them coming in 2023. The former India skipper handed captaincy of CSK to Ruturaj ahead of IPL 2024.

Chennai have had an abysmal start to IPL 2025, losing four out of their first five matches. Former India cricketer Robin Uthappa feels that even the legendary Dhoni will not be able to turn things around for CSK overnight. Uthappa pointed out who would be able to cover up for Ruturaj the batter.

“I don’t think him being captain is going to automatically turn the tide for CSK. There are a lot of gaps on that side, right? Well, how do you fix that? How do you cover for a solid batter like Rutu, who seems like the only one finding some form?" Uthappa asked while speaking to the broadcasters after the Royal Challengers Bengaluru vs Delhi Capitals game.

Also Read: IPL 2025: CSK vs KKR - Stats & Records at MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai

Uthappa mentioned that the talented Rachin Ravindra has not been at his best in the last few games. The all-rounder finished as the highest run-getter in the 2025 Champions Trophy. However, in the IPL, he has only managed one fifty from five games.

“We have Devon Conway, who showed some form in the previous game against Punjab — he scored 69* before getting retired out. Rachin has been a little patchy since the IPL began," Uthappa said.

Chennai will lock horns with Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) at the iconic MA Chidambaram Stadium on Friday, April 11. The Men in Yellow will look to end their four-match losing streak in front of their home fans. Meanwhile, the Knights have started their campaign with two wins and three defeats from five games.