With Ruturaj Gaikwad ruled out of IPL 2025 due to an elbow fracture, Chennai Super Kings (CSK) are likely to turn to Rahul Tripathi as their first-choice replacement in the playing XI.
Tripathi, who has opened the innings in three matches this season, has scored just 30 runs, struggling to find rhythm at the top of the order. However, the 33-year-old has a proven track record in the middle order, where his dynamic stroke play and ability to rotate strike have often added depth and stability to batting line-ups in the past.
MS Dhoni returns as CSK captain for IPL 2025 after Gaikwad ruled out with elbow fracture
Head Coach Stephen Fleming confirmed that while MS Dhoni will step back in as captain for the rest of the season, the team is evaluating its internal options to fill Gaikwad’s spot in the XI. With the squad already having limited top-order alternatives, Tripathi’s experience and versatility make him a natural candidate to step up.
CSK have lost four of their first five games, and Gaikwad’s absence is a huge setback given his consistent performance over the years. However, the franchise will hope that Tripathi’s promotion or shuffle within the batting order can offer a timely boost as they prepare for a crucial run of matches.
