Originally drafted as an injury replacement for Ruturaj Gaikwad, Mhatre had already shown promise in earlier appearances against MI and SRH. His transition into the CSK setup has been smooth, thanks in part to familiar faces like Shivam Dube.

Though Dhoni had a storybook finish last season, leading CSK to a fifth title, his decision to return may not have gone as hoped. While fans may still dream of another season, voices like Gilchrist’s suggest it may be time for the legend to walk away.

Chennai Super Kings (CSK), currently struggling at the bottom of the IPL 2025 points table, have found a replacement for their injured captain Ruturaj Gaikwad. Amid speculation linking Prithvi Shaw to a CSK call-up—especially after he went unsold in the IPL mega auction—the franchise has instead opted for a young and promising talent.

Chennai Super Kings' dismal showing on Friday marked their fifth straight defeat in IPL 2025. Now languishing in ninth place on the points table with just one win — a solitary victory over Mumbai Indians — questions are being raised: is this the end of the road for CSK?

Dhoni, who has led CSK in a record 235 matches and secured five IPL titles (2010, 2011, 2018, 2021, and 2023), is no stranger to leading under pressure. After a brief captaincy handover to Ravindra Jadeja in 2022 and Gaikwad in 2024, Dhoni once again steps in to stabilize the side.