IPL 2024: MS Dhoni Steps Down as CSK Captain - Super Kings' CEO and Coach React

Chennai Super Kings (CSK) sprung a surprise on fans just before the start of IPL 2024 with MS Dhoni relinquishing the captaincy role on the eve of their team's tournament opener against Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) at their home ground, MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai on Friday (March 22).

Young India cricketer Ruturaj Gaikwad - who has been a part of the franchise for the last four years - has been named the new leader of the Yellow Brigade, and the team's CEO and coach have weighed in on this unexpected development.

CEO Kasi Viswanathan revealed he only learned of Dhoni's decision before the captains' meeting. He emphasised Dhoni's track record of prioritising the team's best interests. Viswanathan believes Dhoni likely informed Gaikwad beforehand, highlighting Dhoni's leadership style of consultation. However, the CEO admitted to informing the franchise owner, N Srinivasan, only that morning.

"I got to know of the decision just before the captains' meeting. You have to respect his decision, it is his call - Whatever Dhoni does, it is in the best interest of the team. I believe that Rutu must have been hinted about it in advance. That is the way MS functions. He must have consulted him before deciding to hand over the reins to him. But we informed Mr Srinivasan only this morning," he told PTI.

'CSK Will Be Different From IPL 2022'

Drawing a Distinction from 2022: Viswanathan acknowledged the previous captaincy transition to Ravindra Jadeja wasn't successful. However, he expressed confidence that things would be different this time. "That captaincy transition on Ravindra Jadeja's time did not work out but this is different," he added.

Coach Stephen Fleming explained that CSK wasn't ready to move away from Dhoni's leadership in 2022. He lauded Dhoni's experience but stressed the importance of developing young leaders like Gaikwad.

The former New Zealand cricketer conveyed his belief that the team is well-prepared for this transition and expects Dhoni to play the entire season, noting an improvement in his physical fitness compared to last year.

"We weren't ready to move away from MS in 2022. Dhoni has a good sense of the game, but we want to develop the young players for the role. We are well prepared this time. Expecting MS to play the whole season. His body is much better from last season," Fleming stated.