“Definitely not”: do you remember these words? Why not? Ushered by one of India and CSK’s successful captains, when asked whether he’ll retire once IPL2020 is over! However, this question may not even come up at the IPL2021, because it is all but certain. Having said that, CSK will be in search of MSD’s successor, and the captain contemplation will be on the high priority list for the franchise. In this blog, we’ll analyze the positives and negatives of the top contenders for the throne.
More about CSK: Faltering Spark Plug: CSK in IPL 2020
Suresh Raina
“Chinna Thala” as he is fondly known amongst the CSK fans, Suresh Raina should be at the top of the list of contenders. However, his impromptu decision to leave the CSK camp in IPL2020 is a big hurdle for the job. Till a week back, there was speculation about his CSK retention, forget about the captainship.
The top factor that goes against him is his age. In the IPL’s 15h edition in 2022, he’ll be approaching 35, possibly a maximum of 4-5 years left in him. CSK may not look for a candidate with a potential of 3-4 years on the job. Hence, Suresh Raina may not wear the shoes of MS Dhoni after the conclusion of the next IPL.
Sam Curran
Surprised to see an Englishman for the job? Not me at least! We all know his skills as a cricketer, and how much he has grown in the last couple of years. Even MSD spoke highly about this English lad in the recently concluded IPL season.
At an age of 23 yrs, he’ll have spent nearly five years in international cricket, by the start of the 15th edition. Even MS Dhoni didn’t have as much experience when he took up CSK’s top job. Subsequently, Curran can lead with aplomb, for the next 10 years at least.
However, the factor against him is his national commitment. Over the next few years, he’s expected to play all three formats for England. In such a condition, he may not commit to CSK duties. Hence, he may be pushed down the list to lead the CSK for the next few years.
More Read about MSD: M S Dhoni: A Cynosure of IPL 2020
Ravindra Jadeja
Playing for CSK since 2012 – with an exception of two suspended years of CSK – Jaddu has already spent seven seasons with the franchise. So, he knows in and out of CSK’s culture. Importantly, he’ll be 33 by the time the 15th edition of the IPL starts, leaving at least 6-7 more years in him for the franchise, especially considering his fitness. Moreover, he is consistently delivering results, not just for CSK, but even for India, in the last couple of years.
Though he hasn’t lead the sides in his career, he’ll always have MSD by his side. As an understudy of Dhoni, he can make rapid strides in the job.
Considering all the above aspects, Ravindra Jadeja looks set to take up the helm of CSK after IPL2021. CSK’s captain contemplation may end at the name of the Rajput boy.
For CSK’s captaincy contemplation, the spotlight falls on experienced stalwarts like Ravindra Jadeja or Faf du Plessis. Both possess leadership qualities, with Jadeja offering tactical acumen and all-round abilities while du Plessis brings international captaincy experience and a calm demeanor. Alternatively, grooming a younger player like Ruturaj Gaikwad for future leadership could inject fresh energy. The decision hinges on balancing continuity with rejuvenation, as CSK aims to bounce back from a challenging season. Ultimately, the chosen captain must inspire confidence, unite the team, and navigate CSK towards IPL success.