'I thought he certainly handled it really well'- Experts praise CSK's decision to give leadership reins to Ruturaj Gaikwad

The Chennai Super Kings are perhaps one of the most successful franchises in the Indian Premier League (IPL), having won the title five times. There is a huge fan following for the team wherever they play, and the player who has been a fan favorite within the team is none other than MS Dhoni.

MS Dhoni is not going to be leading the franchise since he has passed on the role to young and upcoming opening batter Ruturaj Gaikwad, who started leading the side last season. This might have been a slightly surprising decision by the franchise and the former skipper, but it seems like the team is happy with the decision. The experts have also shared their opinion on this change in leadership and have praised the youngster and the legend for this decision. Some of the experts were former India legend and 2009 IPL finalist Anil Kumble and former Indian opener turned commentator Aakash Chopra.

“When Rohit Sharma became captain, he also had the legends of the game around him. So it all depends on how, as an individual, you're going to take this responsibility. And I thought Ruturaj certainly handled it really well,” Kumble said, as quoted by JioHotstar.

Also Read: 'The bond between MS Dhoni and Chennai is truly heartwarming' - Former cricketers praise legacy of India legend in IPL

“When a highly experienced captain is still on the field, his presence can be either an asset or overwhelming. Some players might wonder, ‘Am I really leading, or is the team still looking to the former captain?’ But Dhoni’s personality is exceptional; he ensures the transition is seamless without overshadowing the new leader,” said Aakash Chopra.

Former CSK teammates on captaincy change

Not only the experts but also former CSK players praise the decision to give the leadership reins to Ruturaj Gaikwad. The teammates that have given their praises are former CSK opener and star all-rounder Shane Watson and 2-time IPL winner Robin Uthappa.

“CSK had a fantastic 2023 season, and the timing felt right to pass on the leadership. Ruturaj has a calm demeanor, quite similar to Dhoni’s. He is evolving as a leader, and with time, his performances will reflect that growth,” said Uthappa.

“Ruturaj has done an excellent job. Despite the pressure of having Dhoni around, it hasn’t affected his ability to score runs. That speaks volumes about how well CSK’s succession plan is working,” Watson concluded.