The Chennai Super Kings’ early exit from IPL 2025 has reignited intense debate around MS Dhoni’s role and future with the franchise. Former West Indies cricketer Darren Ganga has strongly criticized CSK’s leadership decisions, particularly Dhoni’s reinstatement as captain following Ruturaj Gaikwad’s injury.
CSK’s Playoff Exit Raises Questions
Chennai Super Kings became the first team to be eliminated from playoff contention this season, despite a promising start. The team’s inconsistency, coupled with leadership uncertainty, has triggered a wave of scrutiny, especially toward Dhoni’s comeback as captain.
During an appearance on ESPNCricinfo, Ganga questioned the logic behind the move.
“Isn’t that putting yourself at a disadvantage based on the player’s fitness and availability?” he asked. “You find yourself in a cycle of development with no real progress.”
Ganga on Leadership and Transition Issues
While Ganga acknowledged that Dhoni still has the skills to earn a place in the playing XI as a wicketkeeper-batter, he argued that Dhoni’s continued captaincy ambitions may be harming the team’s evolution.
“Leadership has a shelf life. After 18 years of leading CSK, it’s time to let the next generation take charge,” Ganga said.
He pointed out the lack of a smooth transition plan, citing past leadership experiments with Ravindra Jadeja and now Ruturaj Gaikwad, which have been clouded by Dhoni’s lingering presence.
“It becomes unsettling when younger leaders know someone behind them still has captaincy ambitions, even if it’s presented otherwise.”
CSK’s Unsettled Future
CSK’s failure to identify a long-term leader continues to hurt their chances in the evolving T20 landscape. While Dhoni remains an icon of the franchise, critics believe that his leadership shadow is affecting team dynamics and halting growth.
With Dhoni’s future once again under the spotlight, CSK faces urgent questions heading into the next season—should the team finally move on from Dhoni the captain, and fully back the next generation?
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