Jaipur, The IPL captaincy has not been handed over to Ruturaji Gaikwad, according to veteran all-rounder Ravichandran Ashwin. This is because given the behavior of Mahendra Singh Dhoni, the great player had to discuss the captaincy with the opener in the past. 

Chennai Super Kings announced a day before the start of the 2024 season that Dhoni had entrusted Gaikwad with the captaincy of the team. In the 2022 edition too, CSK tried for a leadership change, but to no avail as Ravindra Jadeja restored Dhoni's captaincy after eight matches.  According to Ashwin, the selection was expected.

"At some point this decision had to be made. I know MS Dhoni and he always prioritizes the success of the team and keeps that in mind," Ashwin wrote on his YouTube page.

"As a result, he gave Jadeja the captain's armband two years ago. Ruturaj has now got it from him. Who will do it and how was up for debate, but a choice had to be made. According to Ashwin, the choice could not have been made at the last minute.

"Until yesterday, Ruturaj would not have imagined that he would only play as a stopper. I think Dhoni may have said to Ruturaj last year, 'Brother, you take the lead. You are capable of it.' Don't worry, I will be there,” said Ashwin.

As for Gaikwad's leadership skills, Ashwin backed him to achieve this, comparing his temperament to Dhoni's and rating both as cool-headed individuals."I knew Ruturaj who is a really kind person and incredibly cool and collected.