MS Dhoni relinquished Chennai Super Kings’ (CSK) captaincy 2 days before the start of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022 and handed over the charge to Ravindra Jadeja. Dhoni was CSK’s full-time captain right since the league’s inception and was expected to finish his IPL career as their leader.
But the India legend decided to pass on the duties to Jadeja, who has been with the Yellow Army since 2012. Dhoni is confirmed to play IPL 2022 but there are doubts if he would continue as a player from IPL 2023.
Sharing his take on Dhoni’s decision to step down, former India wicketkeeper-batsman Deep Dasgupta has made a bold prediction and opined that he might not play every game in the season.
“I was expecting this, to be honest. I don’t think it came out of the blue. Because in my head, I am certain that MSD might not be playing all the games. That’s the reason I was expecting this to happen. And obviously, when you look at that squad, the name that pops out for me is Jaddu. So I am not surprised at all,” he told Sportskeeda.
CSK don’t have a wicketkeeper-batsman who can fill Dhoni’s shoes and it will be interesting to see if he makes way for any junior player during the season.
Talking of Jadeja, he was their first-choice retention and will have a salary of Rs 16 crore. Dhoni was their 2nd pick and will draw a cheque of Rs 12 crore. Ruturaj Gaikwad and Moeen Ali were other 2 players retained by CSK. Jadeja has played a key role in CSK’s success over the years and will have an added responsibility starting IPL 2022.
CSK kick off their IPL 2022 campaign against Kolkata Knight Riders in the opening game of the season at Wankhede Stadium on Saturday (March 26). Their final league stage fixture will be played against Rajasthan Royals on May 20.
