On the eve of the IPL 2024 opener, MS Dhoni stepped down as captain of the Chennai Super Kings (CSK), handing over the leadership baton to young opener Ruturaj Gaikwad.
Leading a successful IPL franchise can be a daunting task. Moreover, Gaikwad has big shoes to fill as he is taking over from a legend, who captained CSK to as many as five IPL titles.
Instead of taking additional pressure, however, Gaikwad feels ‘privileged’ on being appointed as the Super Kings captain.
The 27-year-old also expressed confidence in the team with senior players like Dhoni, Ravindra Jadeja and Ajinkya Rahane around.
“It feels good, obviously it’s a privilege to lead the team. It’s a huge responsibility and I am really excited because of the kind of group we have. Everyone’s experienced enough, so not much to worry about,” said Gaikwad in a video posted by CSK on X (formerly Twitter).
“I have Mahi bhai in the team, Jaddu bhai (Ravindra Jadeja), Ajju bhai (Ajinkya Rahane), so nothing much to worry about. I am just looking forward to enjoying it,” he added.
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.
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.
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.
