MS Dhoni handed over CSK's leadership baton to Ruturaj Gaikwad.
While the decision came as a surprise for many, veteran India spinner R Ashwin is confident that Gaikwad was not taken aback by the move.
Ashwin said Dhoni quitting the captaincy was inevitable and he is certain that the latter must have told Gaikwad about it as early as 2023.
Like 2022, Dhoni relinquished CSK’s captaincy on the eve of the season. Two years ago, he handed over the reins to Ravindra Jadeja only to see the all-rounder hand it back to him midway through the tournament after a string of poor performances.
"This was an inevitable decision. It had to come at some stage. I know MS Dhoni. He keeps the team at the forefront. He keeps thinking about the well-being of the team. Because of that, 2 years ago, he gave the captain's armband to Jadeja. Now he has given it to Ruturaj. This decision had to happen. Who and how remained the question," Ashwin said in his YouTube show with analyst Prasanna.
"I am answering your question. Ruturaj wouldn't have thought his role was only a batter until yesterday. I know MS Dhoni very well. Sitting in his room, enjoying dinner with the youngsters, he must have told Ruturaj last year, I wouldn't be surprised if that was the case. I definitely think it was not a surprise for Ruturaj," he added.
"'Brother, you are going to take charge. You can do all these things. I will be there, don't worry' is something that Dhoni night have told Ruturaj well in advance."
Ruturaj Gaikwad’s elevation to leadership is a testament to his impressive performances for the franchise over the last few seasons. The right-hander played a key role in CSK’s IPL triumph last year as he aggregated 590 runs in 16 matches at an impressive strike rate of 147.50. His breakout year was 2021 when he amassed 635 runs in 16 outings to help the franchise clinch its fourth title.
"I know Ruturaj, he is extremely cool and calm. He is a very good human being. I am extremely elated for him," Ashwin said.
Gaikwad is not new to captaincy, having led the Indian team to the gold medal in the Asian Games last year. He also has the experience of leading his state side Maharashtra.
Ashwin urged the passionate CSK fans to give the new captain time to ease into the role rather than expecting him to produce Dhoni-like results straightaway.
"I think it's wrong to even wonder whether it's a wrong decision from CSK. For Ruturaj, and the people around him, including his family, it's a huge moment," Ashwin said.
"It's unbelievable. He is going to lead a team with such a rich legacy. It's a huge burden, I agree. But I think it's the responsibility of the fans to make Ruturaj enjoy the responsibility. A person is not there is one thing, but nobody is permanent anywhere. Cricket teaches you that. Yes, MS is one of the greatest leaders. But instead of thinking Ruturaj should bring in results immediately, give him some time.
"MS Dhoni's success should not be a burden for Ruturaj Gaikwad. Ruturaj Gaikwad needs to be given space and must be allowed to enjoy the role. That responsibility is that of the fans and the management. Yes, he might lose one or two matches. But, I always believe that the greatest lessons are learned during losses," he further remarked.
Ruturaj Gaikwad has played 52 matches in his IPL career so far, amassing 1797 runs at an average of 39.07 with the highest score of 101 not out.