MS Dhoni has been the cornerstone of Chennai Super Kings since the inception of the IPL in 2008. Apart from a brief two-year hiatus due to the team’s suspension, he has remained a central figure in the franchise’s journey, leading CSK to five championship titles. Though he stepped down as captain ahead of the previous season, handing over leadership to Ruturaj Gaikwad, his role within the team never truly diminished.
With Ruturaj Gaikwad sidelined mid-season due to an elbow injury, Dhoni resumed the captaincy — a move that felt more like a formality than a change. Despite an initial setback against defending champions Kolkata Knight Riders in his first game back at the helm, Dhoni led the team to a solid win over Lucknow Super Giants in their following match. His contribution, both strategic and with the bat — scoring a brisk 26 off 11 balls — earned him the Player of the Match award.
CSK’s bowling coach Eric Simons reflected on Dhoni’s enduring impact, emphasising that his leadership transcends titles. He explained that MSD doesn’t teach any technical stuff but it is all about the calmness and understanding of cricket, which is his way of teaching cricket. Whether or not he is the official captain, MS Dhoni remains an anchor of calmness and wisdom for the squad.
Eric Simons also noted the strong rapport Dhoni shares with young Gaikwad and head coach Stephen Fleming, suggesting that these relationships are crucial to the team’s culture and success. According to him, Dhoni continues to shape the team’s mindset, not through direct commands but through the example he sets in pressure moments — a presence that consistently instills confidence and strategic clarity.
With Ruturaj Gaikwad’s absence being felt, Eric Simons acknowledged the void but also underlined how Dhoni’s constant involvement makes any leadership transition feel seamless. The trust and calm he brings to the team have become an integral part of the CSK identity, whether he holds the captaincy or not.
