IPL 2025: Will Mahendra Singh Dhoni return as Chennai Super Kings captain against Delhi Capitals?

Dubai: Chepauk holds its breath. With Ruturaj Gaikwad nursing an injury and Chennai Super Kings slipping down the table, all eyes are on one man: Mahendra Singh Dhoni. Could the legendary ‘Thala’ be about to step back into the captain’s role — and rescue a season already teetering on the edge?

The big question now: will Dhoni lead the side if Gaikwad fails to recover in time? And can the CSK icon resurrect Chennai’s faltering campaign?

The Yellove’s batting line-up has become a cause for concern. Rahul Tripathi has yet to find his touch, while Deepak Hooda and Vijay Shankar have struggled to anchor the crucial middle order — leaving a gaping hole in the five-time champions’ strategy.

The 50-run defeat to Royal Challengers Bengaluru — who ended a 17-year wait for their first win at Chepauk — must have dented the hosts’ morale. A subsequent loss to Rajasthan Royals has only deepened their troubles.

Delhi Capitals arrive in Chennai brimming with confidence after winning both their opening games. Led by Axar Patel, the team looks well-rounded and balanced. Chennai-born Hemang Badani, part of the Delhi think tank, will bring valuable local knowledge.

Afghanistan’s Noor Ahmed, currently topping the bowling charts, will be a key threat — and his battle with fellow left-arm wrist-spinner Kuldeep Yadav promises to be a fascinating contest.

CSK may bring back Devon Conway, who has formed successful opening partnerships with Rachin Ravindra in the past. Ravindra played a vital role in their win over Mumbai Indians, and veterans Dhoni and Ravindra Jadeja have looked promising, if not yet match-winning.

Dhoni, still razor-sharp behind the stumps with two lightning-quick stumpings in the first two games, remains a fan favourite. With Gaikwad potentially out, Chepauk will be hoping to see their beloved ‘Thala’ back at the helm — and steering CSK back to winning ways.