• Source:JND
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Newly-appointed Chennai Super Kings (CSK) captain Ruturaj Gaikwad is very much excited to head the franchise in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 17th edition after MS Dhoni transferred the leadership baton to the youngster.

The opening batter will have huge shoes to fill as Dhoni steered the side to five IPL titles including last year. The youngster, who joined the franchise in 2019 has impressed with his talent and became a top-order mainstay in the franchise, is yet to make inroads in the leadership role.

"It is a privilege. More than that, it is a huge responsibility but I am really excited because of the kind of group we have. Everyone's experienced enough so not much of a thing for me to do," Gaikwad said in a short video posted by CSK on social media.

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Dhoni, Jadeja, and Ajinkya Rahane, who batted at a mind-boggling strike rate of 172.49 last season, will all be available to assist Gaikwad in decision-making.

"Plus I have Mahi bhai in the team, Jaddu bhai and Ajju bhai (Rahane) as well, who has been a great captain, to guide me. So nothing much to worry about. Looking forward to enjoy it," the opener said.

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Gaikwad, a stylish opener, had a memorable run last year, aggregating 590 runs in 16 games at an impressive strike rate of 147.50. His breakout year was 2021 when he amassed 635 runs in 16 games.

The 27-year-old is not new to captaincy, having led the Indian team to the gold medal in the Asian Games last year. He has also led his state side Maharashtra.

Gaikwad has also played six ODIs and 19 T20 Internationals.

(With PTI inputs)

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