When news broke about MS Dhoni stepping down from the post of Chennai Super Kings (CSK) captain on March 21 (Thursday), more than the decision, it was the timing of it that stunned cricket followers across India. While fans of MS Dhoni, CSK and the Indian Premier League (IPL) were caught off guard by the announcement, the newly-appointed skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad revealed that he had an idea about the huge captaincy transition.
Dhoni asked Ruturaj to 'be ready'
In a video released by IPL, Ruturaj Gaikwad revealed that Dhoni has told him to 'be ready' for the captaincy and the information was conveyed during the previous season of the cash-rich tournament.
"I don't think so I need to change anything. Last year itself, Mahi bhai had just hinted about captaincy at some point in time. Just hinted that 'be ready, it shouldn't come as a surprise to you. So when we came into the camp, obviously he made involved in some of the practice match simulation," said Ruturaj.
Ruturaj on Dhoni's social media post
Recently, MS Dhoni, who is not active on social media, posted a tweet about his new role. It started widespread speculation among the fans about what the new role could be. Ruturaj said that the tweet gave him an idea about what the 'new role' but it was only a week ago that the newly-appointed captain got the confirmation about his new role.
“I remember him posting about the new role on social media. Everybody was just pointing towards me and asking me, 'whether you are the next captain'. I was like maybe it meant something else for social media or something,” said Ruturaj.
"Back of the mind it was there, but then he came in a week ago and said he had decided this and this. But definitely, now that I am here, I am definitely looking forward to it," he added.
The Chennai Super Kings will begin their title defence against Royal Challengers Bangalore in the first match of IPL 2024 on March 22 (Friday).
MORE ON SPORTS TAK:
IPL 2024, CSK vs RCB Preview: Chennai steps into a new era without MS Dhoni at helm, Bengaluru seeks end to Chepauk hoodoo
IPL 2024, CSK vs RCB Predicted Playing XIs: Injury-hit Chennai seeks replacement for two mainstays, Bengaluru search for bowling combination
MS Dhoni steps down from Chennai Super Kings captaincy, this Indian star appointed as captain instead of Ravindra Jadeja
Ruturaj Gaikwad reacts after taking over CSK captaincy from MS Dhoni, says ‘Nothing much to worry’
