'He does not practice his keeping at all' – CSK Skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad on MS Dhoni's preparations

Chennai Super Kings skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad achieved his first win in the ongoing Indian Premier League 2025 (IPL) as the Yellow Brigade defeated Mumbai Indians by four wickets. The young captain also praised his senior and ex-skipper MS Dhoni, highlighting his fitness and preparations before the match and the tournament this season.

This was a clinical performance from the home team at Chepauk. Even though they might have been under slight pressure during the game, they still managed to finish it off with five balls to spare. Though there were plenty of great performances during the match, the most iconic highlight was the former CSK captain’s lightning-fast stumping to dismiss Suryakumar Yadav.

It was a glimpse of vintage MS Dhoni, proving that he has not missed a beat even at the age of 43. Gaikwad also shared insights into Dhoni’s preparations, revealing that the legendary wicketkeeper-batter is still incredibly fit. Surprisingly, he disclosed that Dhoni does not practice his keeping at all during training.

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“He is still the same, he is fitter this year. He does not practice his keeping at all," Gaikwad said after CSK's four-wicket win in Chennai, as quoted by India Today.

"Happy to Be on the Winning Side": Ruturaj Gaikwad

Furthermore, Ruturaj Gaikwad also reflected on the IPL 2025 game, discussing the team's performances. He not only addressed his move to the No. 3 position but also acknowledged some of the standout performances within the team. The CSK captain praised the bowlers for setting up the match, emphasizing how the spinners kept Mumbai’s batters quiet. He also highlighted the contributions of Noor Ahmad and Khaleel Ahmad.

“Happy to be on the winning side, would have loved to be more clinical, but that is how the game goes. That is the requirement of the team (talking about the move to bat at three), and that gives the team more balance. I am really happy to change my position,” he continued.

“The spinners were right on point, and right after the auction, one thing we were really excited about was all those three spinners bowling in tandem at Chepauk. Khaleel is experienced, and Noor is an X-factor, and that is why we wanted him in the team. It's good to have Ash as well," Gaikwad concluded.