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As the IPL 2026 has finally kicked off, much of the conversation surrounding Chennai Super Kings (CSK) centered on whether MS Dhoni would still be pulling the operational strings behind the scenes. Given his legendary tenure and unmatched tactical mind, many expected a shadow captaincy dynamic. However, current skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad has decisively addressed these rumors, clarifying that while Dhoni’s presence remains a cornerstone of the franchise, the day-to-day leadership and final match-day decisions rest firmly with the current management and Gaikwad himself.
MS Dhoni doesn't attend team discussions himself: Ruturaj Gaikwad
Gaikwad spoke candidly about the unique environment of the CSK dressing room, describing it as a distinct privilege to lead a squad that includes a figure he and his teammates grew up idolizing.
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Perhaps most insightful was Gaikwad’s revelation regarding Dhoni’s personal approach to team meetings. Far from being an overbearing mentor, Dhoni reportedly prefers to step back, deliberately empowering Gaikwad and head coach Stephen Fleming to drive strategy. Dhoni frequently reminds the young captain that while his advice is always available, there is no obligation to follow it blindly. This hands-off mentorship is designed to give Gaikwad the necessary space to develop his own instincts and lead the franchise into its next era with total autonomy.
He isn't focused on what is 'right' or 'wrong: Gaikwad on Dhoni
Despite his unparalleled experience, Dhoni has consciously stepped back from the decision-making core to empower a new generation of leaders. Gaikwad noted that this move shows Dhoni's commitment to the team's long-term independence, as he wants the squad to evolve based on their own tactical ideas rather than leaning on him as a safety net.
“I have huge respect for Mahi Bhai. He doesn't attend team discussions himself; he wants Fleming and me to take things forward. He tells us, 'Even if you ask for my advice, you don't necessarily have to follow it," Ruturaj said on the Super Kings podcast show.
"He believes our ideas should drive the team. He isn't focused on what is 'right' or 'wrong' - if he sees a problem, he just focuses on how to solve it. For someone of his stature to take a step back & trust us to lead is a huge thing. Even when he asks for advice from MS Dhoni, that doesn’t necessarily mean to follow it blindly. He wants the team to keep running on their ideas, not on him. That’s why he passes these responsibilities to the coach, captain, and the team management," he added.
A central theme of Gaikwad’s leadership has been absorbing Dhoni’s trademark composure. The young captain emphasized that witnessing Dhoni’s unwavering calm under immense pressure has been his most significant learning experience. This ability to remain steady and deliver during the tournament's most critical "crunch moments" continues to serve as a primary source of inspiration for the entire roster as they navigate the 2026 season.
“For someone of his stature to take a step back & trust us to lead is a huge thing. We all know how big MS Dhoni is and what he has done for international cricket in the past. Believing in me is already a very big thing for me. Over the years, we have learned a lot of things from Dhoni. The way he keeps himself calm under pressure conditions and keeps believing in his abilities to finish the game single-handedly," he concluded.
Meanwhile, CSK have suffered a massive blow ahead of their campaign opener against Rajasthan Royals. Dhoni will miss the action for the first two weeks of the IPL 2026.
"MS Dhoni is currently undergoing rehabilitation for a calf strain. As a result, he is likely to miss the first two weeks of TATA IPL 2026," CSK wrote on social media.
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