Dhoni Returns as CSK Captain: Ruturaj out for a Season

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Chennai Super Kings (CSK) fans have always believed in miracles, and they just got one! MS Dhoni is back as the captain after Ruturaj Gaikwad was ruled out of IPL 2025 due to an elbow injury.

While the news of Gaikwad’s exit was heartbreaking, the silver lining was Dhoni’s return to the throne, something fans had secretly wished for all along.

How It Happened – The Ruturaj Setback

Ruturaj Gaikwad, who had been leading CSK this season, suffered a hairline fracture in his elbow during a game against Rajasthan Royals. Despite his injury, he powered through the next few matches, delivering a solid 63-run knock against Delhi Capitals before doctors finally said, “No more, buddy.” Unfortunately, he had to be sidelined for the rest of the season, leaving CSK in need of a leader. And who better than the man who has done it all before—Captain Cool himself!

Ambati Rayudu’s Fanboy Moment

Among those overjoyed by Dhoni’s return, Ambati Rayudu was at the top of the list. The former CSK star, now a commentator, couldn’t hold back his excitement.

He tweeted, cheered, and probably even did a small happy dance in his living room. “This is it! CSK is back in safe hands! THALA FOR A REASON!” he posted while fans flooded social media with Dhoni’s iconic pictures.

Rayudu Shuts Down Critics in Style

The moment Dhoni was reinstated as CSK captain, Rayudu took to social media and delivered a mic-drop moment for his critics. In a fiery post, he declared:

“I was a Thala fan. I am a Thala fan. I will always be a Thala fan. No matter what anyone thinks or does, it won’t make a one percent difference. So please stop spending money on paid PR and donate that to charity instead. A lot of underprivileged people can benefit.”

I was a Thala’s fan
I am a Thala’s fan
I will always be a Thala’s fan.

No matter what anyone thinks or does. It will not make a one percent difference.

So please stop spending money on paid pr and donate that to charity. Lot of underprivileged people can benefit.
— ATR (@RayuduAmbati) April 10, 2025

Basically, Rayudu told the haters to sit down, relax, and accept that Thala is forever!

Hopeful for Another Dhoni Masterclass

Rayudu didn’t stop there. He also expressed his excitement over Dhoni’s return, acknowledging Ruturaj Gaikwad’s unfortunate exit but reassuring fans that if anyone can pull off a miracle, it’s MS Dhoni.

“First of all, it’s very sad that Ruturaj has been ruled out of the IPL. But all the fans will definitely be extremely excited to see MS Dhoni lead CSK again. He can always pull out his magic and make CSK qualify from here. It will be one great story.”

So, with Captain Cool back in charge and Rayudu cheering from the sidelines, CSK fans are dreaming of another fairytale finish. Will Dhoni do it again? If you ask Rayudu, there’s no doubt—Thala always delivers!

Challenges Ahead – Can Dhoni Pull Off Another Miracle?

At 43, Dhoni’s leadership skills remain unmatched, but CSK’s current situation is far from ideal. The team sits in ninth place in the standings, having lost four of their first five matches.

While fans believe in the “Dhoni Effect,” even the great man himself will have to pull out some legendary tricks to turn things around. With a crucial match against Kolkata Knight Riders up next, the stakes are higher than ever.