Why did MS Dhoni decide to give up the CSK captaincy? CSK CEO explains | Cricket News

MS Dhoni reportedly revealed his decision to step down as captain to his Chennai Super Kings (CSK) teammates at the breakfast table on Thursday. Reports claim that Dhoni informed his teammates and support staff of his decision and later, called the team management to inform them of the decision to hand over the captaincy to Ruturaj Gaikwad. CSK CEO Kasi Viswanathan said he was surprised when Dhoni informed them of his resignation as captain ahead of IPL 2024, explaining that he wanted to work with Gaikwa Germany (Gaikwad) to complete the transition together.

“He informed us of the decision this morning before the captain’s meeting after talking to the head coach,” Viswanathan told The Indian Express.

“Mr Srinivasan has given the responsibility to Dhoni and whatever decision he takes will always be in the best interest of the team. He has been nurturing Gaikwa both on and off the field over the past few years. Dhoni feels that now is the best time to hand over to him as he feels Gaikwad is ready as well,” Viswanathan added.

Dhoni was appointed captain of CSK in the inaugural season of IPL 2008 and under his leadership, the team won the title five times, jointly with Mumbai Indians for the most titles.

CSK head coach Stephen Fleming also expressed his opinion on Dhoni’s decision.

“This is MS, building on last season’s good performance, with a lot of thought and looking ahead. The timing is good. Behind the scenes, Ruturaj and others have been undergoing captaincy training sessions, especially after On days like this when opportunity comes, Microsoft is the best judge,” he said.

Fleming said Dhoni’s announcement was a “low-key” incident as the incident has been going on for around two years.

“It’s normally very low-key but the celebrations soon started and the players hugged Ruturaj,” he said.

“Of course, it was a bit of a shock, but going back two years later, the players and now former captain (Dhoni) handled it very well in announcing the decision to the team,” Fleming added.

(with PTI input)