Ahead of Chennai Super Kings’ IPL 2025 opener, captain Ruturaj Gaikwad opens up on MS Dhoni’s ageless legacy, influence on young players, and why he believes the former skipper still has years of cricket left in him.
Chennai, March 23: Chennai Super Kings (CSK) captain Ruturaj Gaikwad has paid glowing tribute to MS Dhoni, calling the legendary former India captain “remarkable” and “inspirational,” as the 43-year-old icon gears up for another IPL campaign.
Speaking ahead of CSK’s high-voltage IPL 2025 opener against arch-rivals Mumbai Indians, Ruturaj shed light on Dhoni’s minimal yet focused training routine and continued impact on the squad.
“Whatever he’s doing at the age of 43 is remarkable… it inspires every single one of us in the squad,” said Gaikwad.
Despite no longer playing a full-fledged role with the bat, Dhoni has embraced his position as CSK’s finisher, walking in during the final overs and attempting to clear the ropes with his trademark power hitting.
“His training is very limited now, and it’s all about what he needs to achieve for the team. He focuses on swinging clean, hitting sixes, and staying in top shape for his role. And honestly, he never really looked out of shape, even on day one of training,” Gaikwad revealed to ESPNcricinfo.
The CSK skipper drew a unique comparison between Dhoni and another cricketing icon:
“Even Sachin Tendulkar still bats amazingly well at 51. So Dhoni, too, still has many years to go,” he smiled.
Dhoni himself recently reflected on his journey, stating that he still wants to enjoy cricket “like a schoolboy,” drawing parallels to the joy he experienced playing with childhood innocence. The 2005-debutant suggested he sees himself playing for a couple more years, much to the delight of CSK fans.
Gaikwad added that Dhoni’s influence goes far beyond statistics or finishes:
“New players in the camp often watch him hit the ball cleaner than anyone else. He lifts the entire group—just his presence makes a difference. Watching him bat the way he does, it’s not just inspiring, it’s humbling.”
With MS Dhoni continuing to be a driving force behind CSK’s culture, the men in yellow seem set to write another memorable chapter in IPL 2025.