Ravichandran Ashwin backed Ruturaj Gaikwad as the new CSK captain and opined that the new skipper should be given time to settle in.
Former Chennai Super Kings (CSK) player Ravichandran Ashwin weighed in on MS Dhoni’s decision to step down as captain, expressing his belief that the transition to Ruturaj Gaikwad was well-planned.
“This was an inevitable decision. It had to come at some stage. I know MS Dhoni. He keeps the team at the forefront. He keeps thinking about the well-being of the team. Because of that, two years ago, he gave the captain’s armband to Jadeja. Now he has given it to Ruturaj. This decision had to happen,” Ashwin said on his YouTube channel.
Ashwin further suggested that Dhoni likely informed Gaikwad about the captaincy changes well in advance. “Ruturaj wouldn’t have thought his role was only a batter until yesterday. I know MS Dhoni very well. Sitting in his room, enjoying dinner with the youngsters, he must have told Ruturaj last year, ‘Brother, you are going to take charge. You can do all these things. I will be there; don’t worry; Dhoni might have told Ruturaj well in advance,” he noted.
Ashwin also heaped praise on the new CSK captain, calling him “cool and calm,” traits that are synonymous with the person he has stepped in for. “I know Ruturaj; he is extremely cool and calm. He is a very good human being. I am extremely elated for him,” added Ashwin.
The veterinary spinner also urged CSK fans to be patient with Gaikwad as he adjusts to his new role. “I think it’s wrong to even wonder whether it’s a wrong decision from CSK. He is going to lead a team with such a rich legacy. It’s a huge burden, I agree. But I think it’s the responsibility of the fans to make Ruturaj enjoy the responsibility. Yes, MS is one of the greatest leaders. But instead of thinking Ruturaj should bring in results immediately, give him some time,” he added.
Ravichandran Ashwin might be playing for the Rajasthan Royals in their season opener against the Lucknow Super Giants on March 24th.
Last Updated on March 22, 2024
