
Rayudu Backs Dhoni: In a significant turn of events for the Chennai Super Kings (CSK), MS Dhoni has stepped in as captain for the remainder of IPL 2025 following Ruturaj Gaikwad’s elbow injury that would keep him out for the duration. A contributor from CSK in the past, Ambati Rayudu, commented as well exclaiming he was sure Dhoni would be able to turn things back around for the franchise.
Rayudu Backs Dhoni to Work His Magic

Talking to ESPN Cricinfo, Ambati Rayudu revealed how he reacted to the sudden captaincy change within the CSK camp. Having expressed disappointment regarding Ruturaj’s injury, Rayudu also pointed towards the silver lining that Dhoni returned as captain.
“First of all, it is very sad that CSK captain Ruturaj has been excluded from the IPL. But all the fans will surely be immensely thrilled to have MS Dhoni captain CSK once again. He can always bring out his magic and make CSK reach here from the qualification. It will be one wonderful story,” said Rayudu.”.
The “Rayudu backs Dhoni” sentiment is echoed by fans and cricket pundits alike, who see Dhoni’s comeback as a potential turning point for CSK in the 2025 season.
Robin Uthappa Also Weighs In

Another former CSK veteran, Robin Uthappa, also commented on Dhoni’s return to the captaincy. Uthappa praised Dhoni for staying in the background to allow Ruturaj and coach Stephen Fleming to build chemistry but acknowledged that Dhoni stepping back in was likely to bring strategic changes.
“He is going to regain control at the helm. He kept himself in the background totally and let Fleming and Ruturaj sort of build their chemistry. Now he returns to the front. You will notice a couple of changes, I guess, in the next two days and the game against KKR,” said Uthappa.
Dhoni’s Last Captaincy Appearance Was IPL 2023 Final
It was thought that the IPL 2023 Final would be MS Dhoni’s last match as CSK captain, making the news of his return to play IPL 2025 even more shocking. His return should bolster a CSK team that currently has lost four in a row with only one win in five matches.
CSK’s Next Challenge: KKR on April 11
CSK will be taking on the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) on Friday, April 11, a match that will determine the course of their season. With Dhoni back in charge, fans are waiting to see what strategic developments take place and if CSK can stage a comeback.
With Rayudu supporting Dhoni and Uthappa suggesting possible shifts in strategy, all eyes are on MS Dhoni as he again takes the helm with CSK. If history teaches us anything, then Dhoni’s calm leadership and tactical brilliance could very well put the five-time IPL champs in a fairytale comeback.
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