Why did Ruturaj Gaikwad rule out of CSK vs KKR IPL 2025?
New Delhi: Ruturaj Gaikwad fractured his elbow which had Chennai Super Kings suffer a major blow in their IPL 2025. He picked up the injury during the match against Rajasthan Royals when a short ball from Jofra Archer struck him in Guwahati. Gaikwad continued playing despite the pain. Later, scans confirmed a fracture in the radial neck of his elbow, ruling him out of the tournament.
Stephen Fleming Confirms Injury; Light-Hearted Take on Dhoni’s Return
Head coach Stephen Fleming shared the news with disappointment, saying, “He got hit in Guwahati. He’s been operating with an amount of pain. We got an X-ray, which was inconclusive, and we had an MRI, which revealed a fracture in his elbow, in the radial neck. So we’re disappointed and feel for him.” Fleming also confirmed that MS Dhoni would lead the side in Gaikwad’s absence, jokingly calling him “an uncapped player.”
Dhoni at Toss: “He’ll Be a Big Miss”
At the toss before CSK’s game against KKR, Dhoni addressed Gaikwad’s injury: “He has fractured something on his elbow, so he is ruled out of the tournament. He is a very authentic batter, someone who looks to time the ball well. So yeah, he will be a big miss.” Dhoni also stressed the need for CSK to return to basics after a string of defeats, highlighting the importance of dot balls, safe fielding, and backing instincts.
Team Changes and Revised Lineup
In the absence of Gaikwad, Rahul Tripathi joined the playing XI, with Anshul Kamboj replacing Mukesh Choudhary. CSK’s new look featured Rachin Ravindra and Devon Conway as openers, supported by experienced hands like Jadeja, Ashwin, and Dhoni himself.
The Road Ahead for CSK
Facing a critical phase in the season, CSK will rely on Dhoni’s seasoned leadership to guide them through. As fans rally behind the team, the return of “Captain Cool” could be the spark they need.
