One of the standout moments of the season was Dhoni’s nostalgic six over extra-cover, reminiscent of his younger days representing India. Player of the season, Tushar Deshpande, shone with his impressive performance, taking 17 wickets and showcasing his bowling prowess.
A memorable game for CSK was their away win against Mumbai Indians, where Gaikwad and Dube’s partnership, along with Dhoni’s explosive batting in the final over, secured a thrilling victory. Additionally, Mustafizur Rahman’s inclusion proved to be a successful move, providing a much-needed left-arm option in the bowling attack.
However, not all moves were as effective, with Rachin Ravindra struggling to fill the void left by Devon Conway’s absence due to injury. Despite challenges, Gaikwad emerged as a star of the season, showcasing his talent with the bat and proving himself as a reliable leader for the team.
Looking ahead, Gaikwad, Pathirana, and either Jadeja or Dube are speculated to be potential retention picks for CSK in the upcoming cycle, pending finalization of retention rules by the IPL GC. As fans eagerly anticipate the next season, CSK’s transition under Gaikwad’s leadership promises an exciting future for the team.