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CSK video for Ruturaj Gaikwad Photograph: (X)
Ruturaj Gaikwad has linked up with his Chennai Super Kings (CSK) teammates for the coming Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 season. CSK posted an epic video for Gaikwad as the 28-year-old joined the camp arranged for the coming season. The first match for CSK will be against the Mumbai Indians at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai.
Gaikwad was named the captain of the side last season after MS Dhoni stepped down just before the season. Chennai had last won the title in 2023, beating Gujarat Titans in the finals. The Men in Yellow were beaten by Royal Challengers Bengaluru last season in what was a virtual knockout match for both sides.
Watch the video here:
The CSK skipper played 14 matches last season and scored 583 runs with one century and four fifties. The 28-year-old had an average of 53 with a strike rate of 141 but sadly couldn’t take his team to the playoffs. Gaikwad’s 108 not out, which was his only ton in the season and also his best ever IPL score, came against Lucknow Super Giants in front of his home fans.
MS Dhoni set to use lighter bats in IPL 2025?
Former India and Chennai Super Kings skipper MS Dhoni is set to play his 18th IPL season this year. The 43-year-old’s return to the field has been widely anticipated in what could be his swansong season. Dhoni is currently undergoing training in Ranchi and is expected to link up with his teammates soon.
Meanwhile, Indian Express came out with a report on Tuesday that Dhoni is looking to use lighter bats this coming season. This could be an indication that the former India legend is looking to improve his power game in the final few overs of the innings. One source speaking to Indian Express said, “Four bats have been delivered to Dhoni recently by Sanspareils Greenlands Pvt. Ltd., the cricket equipment company from Meerut. Each bat weighs around 1230 grams with the same shape as before."
Meanwhile, CSK management has stated that players will not train together in Chepauk till the ninth of March. As per the new rules set by the BCCI, the grounds will not be available for practice till a few weeks before the tournament. “The schedule of training has not been finalised yet. Anyway, the MA Chidambaram Stadium cannot be used for training purposes till March 9, as the BCCI has given strict instructions to maintain the venue in optimal conditions.”