MS Dhoni discussed the challenges faced by Chennai Super Kings (CSK) during the IPL 2025 season, highlighting the impact of Ruturaj Gaikwad’s injury. Dhoni believes Gaikwad’s return will bolster the batting lineup for the IPL 2026 season.
“We are slightly worried about our batting order,” Dhoni said. “But I think our batting order is quite sorted out now. Rutu (Gaikwad) will be coming back. He got injured. But he will be coming back. So, we are quite sorted now.”
After taking on the captaincy last season, Dhoni aimed to revive CSK’s fortunes, but the team finished at the bottom, winning only four of 14 matches.
Dhoni acknowledged the need for improvements, especially during the upcoming mini-auction. He emphasized the necessity of addressing existing shortcomings. Gaikwad, who last played on April 8, was scheduled to play county cricket but withdrew. He is now set to join the West Zone team in the Duleep Trophy 2025–26.
“Yes, the last couple of years have not been good for us,” Dhoni stated. “We have not been up to the mark. But what is important is for you to see the learnings. Yes, you had a bad season. But what went wrong? And that was the question for us last year also.
“We were like, ‘okay, there are some shortcomings’. But first we needed to exactly figure out what were the shortcomings and then look at solutions. I feel more often than not we have been able to figure out what exactly went wrong. In sports, you know you can have a very good time and at the same time there will be periods when you won’t be performing well. In CSK, more often than not, we are on the higher side.
“So, we do talk about the processes. But at the same time we do want the result to come to our side. Last year it wasn’t there. But looking ahead, we will try to sort out most of the things, and we will hopefully be at our best.”
Dhoni reflected on CSK’s recent performances, admitting they haven’t met expectations. He emphasized the importance of analyzing and addressing the team’s weaknesses before the next season. He also reflected on his long association with CSK, recognizing the impact of the franchise on his life.