MS Dhoni might lead Chennai Super Kings again when they play Delhi Capitals in an IPL 2025 match on Saturday. According to the Indian Express, Ruturaj Gaikwad’s availability for the game is uncertain after he injured his forearm. Gaikwad was hit on his right arm by a ball from Tushar Deshpande during the match against Rajasthan Royals.
MS Dhoni Likely to Lead CSK Against Delhi Capitals in IPL 2025
The report said that Ruturaj Gaikwad did not practice before the game, and CSK’s batting coach Mike Hussey mentioned that they will decide about his playing status before the match. Since there are no other captaincy options in the team, Dhoni is expected to take charge in front of the home crowd in Chennai.
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“Yeah, we’re hoping he’s going to try and have a bat today for training. And, yeah, it’s still a little bit sore, but it’s improving every day. So, we’re very hopeful, very confident that he’ll be fine for tomorrow (Saturday),” Hussey said on the eve of the game.
“I’m not sure, actually. I don’t think we’ve actually thought about that too much. Well, I haven’t thought about it too much. I’m sure (Stephen) Fleming and Rutu (Ruturaj) have thought about that.”
“But we’ve got some young guy coming through. He’s behind the stumps. Maybe he can do a good job. I’m not sure. He’s got a bit of experience in the role, so maybe he could do it. But I’m not exactly sure, to be honest,” Hussey said.
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When asked about possible captaincy candidates, Hussey made a subtle reference to MS Dhoni.
“I’m not sure, actually. I don’t think we’ve actually thought about that too much. Well, I haven’t thought about it too much. I’m sure (Stephen) Fleming and Rutu (Ruturaj) have thought about that.”
“But we’ve got some young guy coming through. He’s behind the stumps. Maybe he can do a good job. I’m not sure. He’s got a bit of experience in the role, so maybe he could do it. But I’m not exactly sure, to be honest,” Hussey said.
The pitch at MA Chidambaram is expected to be slow and favorable for spin bowling. The afternoon heat will prevent any dew from forming, so the toss won’t be as important. The focus will be more on good bowling tactics and smart batting.
CSK have traditionally done well against DC at Chepauk, but right now, Delhi’s current form and team balance give them an edge. A win for DC could take them to the top of the table, while CSK need to win to stop their losing streak.
Even though Delhi is in good form, CSK still have the upper hand in head-to-head matchups, having won 19 out of 30 games against DC, who have won only 11.
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