Introduction: A Shocking Turn for CSK Fans
Ruturaj Gaikwad ruled out of IPL 2025—this news hit Chennai Super Kings (CSK) fans like a thunderbolt on April 10, 2025. The young captain suffered a hairline fracture in his elbow, ending his season abruptly. But there’s a silver lining: MS Dhoni, the legendary “Thala,” is back to lead CSK for the rest of IPL 2025, starting with their clash against Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) on April 11. With CSK struggling at ninth on the points table after losing four of their first five matches, this captaincy switch has sparked hope and excitement.
In this article, we’ll dive into who Ruturaj Gaikwad is, his incredible IPL journey, the injury that sidelined him, and what Dhoni’s return means for CSK. We’ll also explore potential replacements, answer trending Google queries, and look at the future of the five-time champions. Let’s get started!
Who Is Ruturaj Gaikwad? The Rising Star of Indian Cricket
Ruturaj Gaikwad ruled out of IPL 2025: Ruturaj Gaikwad has been a cornerstone of CSK’s batting lineup and a rising star in Indian cricket. Born on January 31, 1997, in Pune, Maharashtra (not Delhi, as some might confuse), Ruturaj hails from a supportive family that nurtured his cricketing dreams. His father, Dashrath Gaikwad, was a former cricketer, and his mother, Savita, encouraged his passion from a young age.
Ruturaj’s early cricket journey began in Pune’s local grounds, where his talent shone through. He rose through Maharashtra’s domestic ranks, making his first-class debut in 2016. His elegant batting style and calm demeanor caught the eye of selectors, paving the way for his IPL debut with CSK in 2020.
Ruturaj Gaikwad’s Background and Early Career
- Hometown: Pune, Maharashtra
- Family Support: Father Dashrath, a cricketer, and mother Savita backed his journey.
- Domestic Rise: Scored heavily in Ranji Trophy and Vijay Hazare Trophy, showcasing consistency.
- IPL Debut: 2020 with CSK, though he played only a few games initially.
Ruturaj’s breakthrough came in IPL 2021, when he won the Orange Cap with 635 runs, proving his mettle as a top-order batsman. His rise from a domestic talent to CSK’s captain in 2024 is a testament to his hard work and composure.
Ruturaj Gaikwad’s Record-Breaking IPL Moment
Ruturaj Gaikwad ruled out of IPL 2025: One of Ruturaj Gaikwad’s most unforgettable moments came in IPL 2021 against Rajasthan Royals on October 2, 2021, at Abu Dhabi. Chasing 190, Ruturaj smashed an unbeaten 101 off 60 balls, including 9 fours and 5 sixes. This knock wasn’t just a personal milestone—it sealed CSK’s playoff spot and showcased his ability to anchor and finish games.
Why This Moment Matters for IPL Fans
This century was significant because it marked Ruturaj as CSK’s next big thing after Dhoni. Fans saw shades of consistency and flair that reminded them of legends, making him a fan favorite and a future leader. His calm approach under pressure became a hallmark of his IPL career.
Ruturaj Gaikwad’s IPL and CSK Career Highlights
Ruturaj Gaikwad’s journey with CSK has been nothing short of inspiring. Here’s a look at his key stats and achievements:
| Season | Matches | Runs | Average | Strike Rate | Fifties | Hundreds |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2020 | 6 | 204 | 51.00 | 120.71 | 3 | 0 |
| 2021 | 16 | 635 | 45.35 | 136.26 | 4 | 1 |
| 2022 | 14 | 368 | 26.28 | 126.89 | 3 | 0 |
| 2023 | 16 | 590 | 42.14 | 147.50 | 4 | 0 |
| 2024 | 14 | 583 | 53.00 | 141.16 | 4 | 1 |
| 2025 (till injury) | 5 | 122 | 30.50 | 135.55 | 2 | 0 |
- Total IPL Runs: 2,502 (as of IPL 2025, 5 matches)
- CSK Captaincy: Took over in 2024, leading in 19 matches with a mixed record.
- Orange Cap: Won in 2021 with 635 runs, CSK’s first recipient since Michael Hussey (2013).
Ruturaj’s consistency made him CSK’s top run-scorer in three of the last four seasons, cementing his role as a key batsman and leader.
Ruturaj Gaikwad Ruled Out of IPL 2025: Injury Updates
Ruturaj Gaikwad ruled out of IPL 2025: On March 30, 2025, during CSK’s match against Rajasthan Royals in Guwahati, Ruturaj Gaikwad was hit on his unprotected elbow by a Tushar Deshpande delivery. Chasing 183, he battled on but the blow left its mark. Despite playing the next two games against Delhi Capitals and Punjab Kings, an MRI revealed a hairline fracture in his elbow’s radial neck, ruling him out of IPL 2025.
What Happened?
CSK coach Stephen Fleming confirmed the injury on April 10, saying, “He got hit in Guhawati. The X-ray was inconclusive, but an MRI showed a fracture. He’s out of the tournament.” Ruturaj had scored 122 runs in 5 matches, including two fifties, before the injury ended his campaign.
Recovery Time
A hairline elbow fracture typically takes 6-8 weeks to heal, followed by rehab. For a batsman, regaining full mobility could push recovery to 10-12 weeks, meaning Ruturaj will miss IPL 2025 entirely but should return for domestic or international cricket by mid-2025.
Queries About Ruturaj Gaikwad
1. Ruturaj Gaikwad Age
Ruturaj Gaikwad is 28 years old, born on January 31, 1997. As of April 10, 2025, he’s in his prime, making his injury a huge setback.
2. Ruturaj Gaikwad IPL Auction
CSK retained Ruturaj for Rs 18 crore ahead of the IPL 2025 mega auction, recognizing his value as a batsman and captain. His first IPL auction was in 2019, when CSK picked him for his base price of Rs 20 lakh.
3. Who Is Ruturaj Gaikwad?
He’s an Indian cricketer, CSK’s former captain, and a stylish right-handed batsman known for his technique and composure.
4. Ruturaj Gaikwad Jersey Number
Ruturaj wears jersey number 31 for CSK, reflecting his birth date.
5. Who is the Captain of CSK?
For rest of the IPL 2025 season, MS Dhoni as CSK Captain.
6. Who is the Captain of CSK for upcoming match against KKR?
MS Dhoni will Lead the CSK again for rest of the matches.
7. When is the next CSK match?
April 11, 2025, Friday against KKR.
Potential Replacements for Ruturaj Gaikwad in IPL 2025
With Ruturaj Gaikwad ruled out of IPL 2025, CSK needs a solid replacement. Here are three options:
| Player | Matches | Runs | Average | Strike Rate | Strengths |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rahul Tripathi | 98 | 2,266 | 27.31 | 139.02 | Experienced opener, aggressive |
| Deepak Hooda | 107 | 1,457 | 20.23 | 132.45 | Middle-order depth, T20I ton |
| Shaik Rasheed | Yet to debut | – | – | – | Young talent, domestic form |
- Rahul Tripathi: Likely to step in, despite a slow 2025 start (30 runs in 3 games).
- Deepak Hooda: Offers flexibility but has struggled (7 runs in 2 games).
- Shaik Rasheed: An uncapped prospect with potential for a debut.
CSK might also consider external signings like Prithvi Shaw or Mayank Agarwal, both proven IPL performers.
MS Dhoni as CSK Captain: The Legend Returns
MS Dhoni’s return as CSK captain is a dream come true for fans. At 43, he steps back into the role he mastered, having led CSK in 235 matches with a record of 142 wins. His five IPL titles (2010, 2011, 2018, 2021, 2023) make him the joint-most successful IPL captain alongside Rohit Sharma.
MS Dhoni’s Captaincy Stats
| Team | Matches | Wins | Losses | Ties/NR | Win % |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| CSK | 235 | 142 | 90 | 3 | 60.42% |
| RPS (2016) | 14 | 5 | 9 | 0 | 35.71% |
| Total IPL | 226 | 133 | 91 | 2 | 58.84% |
- Titles Won: 5 (CSK)
- Batting in 2025: 103 runs in 5 innings, average 51.50, strike rate 153.73.
Dhoni’s tactical brilliance and cool-headedness are unmatched. His recent 27 off 12 against Punjab Kings shows he’s still a force with the bat.
The Future of CSK Under MS Dhoni in IPL 2025
CSK’s season has been rocky—four losses in five games, including a historic home defeat to Royal Challengers Bengaluru. Dhoni’s return could be the spark they need. His experience in turning around campaigns (like in 2022 after Jadeja’s stint) gives hope.
How CSK Might Perform
- Strengths: Dhoni’s leadership, a strong bowling attack (Pathirana, Ashwin), and fan support at Chepauk.
- Challenges: Top-order struggles without Ruturaj, inconsistent form.
- Prediction: With Dhoni at the helm, CSK could climb to mid-table or even push for playoffs if the batting clicks.
Conclusion: What’s Next for CSK and IPL Fans?
Ruturaj Gaikwad ruled out of IPL 2025 is a massive blow, but MS Dhoni’s return has reignited CSK’s spirit. As “Thala” leads against KKR on April 11, fans are buzzing with excitement. Will Dhoni weave his magic again? Who will step up in Ruturaj’s absence? Share your thoughts in the comments below and stay tuned to IPL Star for the latest IPL 2025 news!
Also Read: CSK Full Schedule IPL 2025 here
FAQs: Ruturaj Gaikwad Ruled Out of IPL 2025 and MS Dhoni to Lead CSK
1. Why was Ruturaj Gaikwad ruled out of IPL 2025?
Ruturaj Gaikwad was ruled out of IPL 2025 due to a hairline fracture in his elbow, sustained during a match against Rajasthan Royals on March 30, 2025. An MRI confirmed the injury, forcing him to miss the remainder of the season, as announced by CSK coach Stephen Fleming on April 10, 2025.
2. What happened to Ruturaj Gaikwad’s elbow in IPL 2025?
Ruturaj Gaikwad suffered an elbow injury when a Tushar Deshpande delivery hit his unprotected elbow while batting against Rajasthan Royals. Despite playing two more games, scans revealed a radial neck fracture, leading to his exit from IPL 2025.
3. How long will Ruturaj Gaikwad’s injury recovery take?
A hairline elbow fracture typically heals in 6-8 weeks, with full recovery, including rehab, taking 10-12 weeks. Ruturaj Gaikwad, ruled out of IPL 2025, should be back for domestic or international cricket by mid-2025.
4. Who replaced Ruturaj Gaikwad as CSK captain in IPL 2025?
MS Dhoni replaced Ruturaj Gaikwad as CSK captain for IPL 2025 after Gaikwad’s injury. Dhoni, a five-time IPL-winning captain, took over starting with the match against Kolkata Knight Riders on April 11, 2025.
5. What is MS Dhoni’s record as CSK captain?
MS Dhoni has led CSK in 235 matches, winning 142 with a 60.42% win rate. Under his leadership, CSK clinched five IPL titles (2010, 2011, 2018, 2021, 2023), making him one of the most successful captains in IPL history.
6. Who could replace Ruturaj Gaikwad in the CSK batting lineup?
Potential replacements for Ruturaj Gaikwad in IPL 2025 include Rahul Tripathi (2,266 IPL runs), Deepak Hooda (1,457 runs), and uncapped talent Shaik Rasheed. CSK might also sign external players like Prithvi Shaw or Mayank Agarwal.
7. How has CSK performed in IPL 2025 so far?
As of April 10, 2025, CSK has struggled in IPL 2025, winning only one of their first five matches. They’re ninth on the points table, making MS Dhoni’s return as captain a crucial boost for Chennai Super Kings updates.
8. What are Ruturaj Gaikwad’s IPL stats?
Before being ruled out of IPL 2025, Ruturaj Gaikwad scored 2,502 runs in 71 matches, averaging 39.71 with a strike rate of 137.31. He has 20 fifties, 2 hundreds, and won the Orange Cap in 2021 with 635 runs.
9. How old is Ruturaj Gaikwad in 2025?
Ruturaj Gaikwad is 28 years old in 2025, born on January 31, 1997. His youth and skill made his injury a significant loss for CSK in IPL 2025 news.
10. Why is MS Dhoni’s return as captain exciting for fans?
MS Dhoni’s return as CSK captain in IPL 2025 thrills fans due to his iconic legacy—five IPL titles, tactical genius, and a knack for turning seasons around. His leadership brings hope to a struggling CSK side.
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