Stephen Fleming is optimistic about reviving team performance under Dhoni's leadership.

In a move that reignites the hopes of Chennai Super Kings (CSK) fans, legendary skipper MS Dhoni is set to lead the team once again in the IPL 2025 season.

When CSK faces Kolkata Knight Riders in Chennai this Friday, the spotlight will be on Dhoni, the most successful captain in IPL history.

CSK finds itself in a precarious position, having lost four out of five matches, and currently languishing in 9th place in the 10-team league. To compound matters, regular captain Ruturaj Gaikwad has been sidelined with an elbow injury.

In this challenging scenario, Dhoni steps up to steer the team's campaign back on track.

CSK head coach Stephen Fleming expressed confidence in Dhoni's return to captaincy. "He had no hesitation to step up and help guide us out of this if we can," Fleming said. "We’ll look at replacements. We have good players in the squad who have been with us for some time, so we'll first explore internal options.

However, there’s also a chance to reinforce the squad for the upcoming years."

Having led CSK from 2008 to 2023 and clinching five IPL titles, Dhoni handed over the reins to Gaikwad before the 2024 season.

Gaikwad's injury came after being struck by a Jofra Archer delivery on March 30. Despite the setback, he played two subsequent games in pain before medical evaluations confirmed a fracture in his elbow.

"Ruturaj was struck in Guwahati against Rajasthan Royals and has been managing considerable pain. While his X-ray was inconclusive, the MRI revealed a fracture in the radial neck of his elbow," Fleming explained. "He played through pain against Delhi Capitals and Punjab Kings, but regrettably, he will miss the remainder of the tournament. We're disappointed for him and appreciate his effort to contribute under duress."

Despite Gaikwad’s significant role as CSK's best batter in the past five games, the team has struggled with inconsistent performances from the top order and a lackluster middle order, failing to chase targets beyond 180.

In response, CSK may turn to Rahul Tripathi to bolster the top order, though he has yet to find his stride this season.

Meanwhile, seasoned player Deepak Hooda might provide stability in the middle order, and the untested Vansh Bedi could bring some much-needed power hitting. Additionally, the team is considering teenager Ayush Mhatre from Mumbai as a substitute player.

CSK’s faithful will be hoping that Dhoni’s return to leadership can reverse their fortunes and set the stage for a resurgence in IPL 2025.