'People Speculated I Was Making The Decisions': MS Dhoni Endorses Ruturaj Gaikwad Review System

Ruturaj Gaikwad guided Chennai Super Kings to a winning start in IPL 2025 against Mumbai Indians. This is Ruturaj's second stint as the CSK captain after MS Dhoni handed over the mantle to him just before the start of IPL 2024.

MS Dhoni Has Been An Integral Part OF CSK

Dhoni has remained an integral part of CSK after being retained as the uncapped player in IPL 2025. The 43-year-old is the most successful captain in the franchise's history having lifted the title on 5 occasions so far.

Gaikwad has some massive shoes to fill and there have been rumours that Dhoni might have been calling the shots from behind. But the former India captain brushed off all the rumours clarifying that Gaikwad is taking 99 per cent of the decisions and he is just helping him out.

Also Read: 'I Am Useless': MS Dhoni Self Critiques Himself Despite CSK's Thumping Win Over MI, Points Out Biggest Weakness In His Game

MS Dhoni Clarifies His Role Under Ruturaj Gaikwad's Leadership

In a chat with JioHotstar, he said, "After IPL last year, I almost immediately told him, '90 per cent you will lead next season, so start preparing yourself mentally'. Before the start of the tournament, I also told him, 'If I give you advice, it doesn't mean you have to follow it. I will try to stay away as much as possible.' During the season, a lot of people speculated that I was making the decisions in the background. But the fact is, he was making 99 per cent of the decisions. The most important calls--bowling changes, field placements--were all his. I was just helping him out. He did a brilliant job of handling the players."

Also Read: Rachin Ravindra's Half Century & Ravindra Jadeja's Composure Steers CSK To A 4 Wicket Win Against Mumbai Indians In IPL 2025

Gaikwad had a tough time navigating the challenges last time as CSK failed to reach the playoffs in IPL 2024. But on Sunday he looked pretty calm and composed on the field and also led the chgase with a fiery half century to his name. Chennai will now take on RCB on March 28.