MS Dhoni Makes History as IPL’s Oldest Captain in 2025 Season

CHENNAI, India — MS Dhoni returned to lead the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in their 2025 Indian Premier League (IPL) match against the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) on April 11, becoming the oldest captain in IPL history at 43 years and 278 days.

This marks Dhoni’s third stint as captain of CSK, a role he held since the team’s inception in 2008 until stepping down after the 2023 season. He returned to leadership after Ruturaj Gaikwad was ruled out for the remainder of the season due to a hairline fracture in his right elbow, managing the team in a must-win clash against KKR at the MA Chidambaram Stadium.

Dhoni’s return highlights his unprecedented status in IPL history, as he extends his record as the oldest player to captain a team after turning 42. Previously, both Shane Warne and Adam Gilchrist captained IPL teams post-41, but Dhoni has now surpassed them. The list of oldest IPL captains includes:

1. MS Dhoni – 43 Years, 278 Days (CSK, 2025)
2. Shane Warne – 41 Years, 249 Days (Rajasthan Royals, 2011)
3. Adam Gilchrist – 41 Years, 185 Days (Kings XI Punjab, 2013)
4. Rahul Dravid – 40 Years, 133 Days (Rajasthan Royals, 2013)
5. Sourav Ganguly – 39 Years, 316 Days (Pune Warriors, 2012)

“It’s a pleasure to captain CSK once again. The team requires stability now, and I’m ready to step in,” Dhoni said during the pre-match press conference. His impressive history as a leader includes guiding CSK to five IPL titles, achieved in 2010, 2011, 2018, 2021, and 2023.

Currently, Dhoni shares the record for most successful captain in IPL history with Rohit Sharma, underscoring his impact in the league. No other player has led a team in more matches or secured more wins than Dhoni, who has reached the IPL final nine times.

“As a captain, the most important thing is to keep the players motivated and focused. With youth on the team, we will aim to turn the season around,” he added. Dhoni’s expectations from the team reflect his extensive experience in handling pressure situations.

In another achievement, Dhoni also became the first wicket-keeper in IPL history to complete 150 catches, which he secured during a recent match against the Punjab Kings. “This milestone represents years of hard work and commitment to the game,” Dhoni stated after the match. Dhoni’s sharp glovework continues to amaze fans, even as young players dominate the scoring charts.

The Chennai Super Kings have faced challenges this season, losing four out of five games prior to Dhoni’s return, and now look to regain momentum under his proven leadership. Their next match against KKR is seen as pivotal in turning the season around, as CSK seeks to make a comeback in the tournament.