England and Chennai Super Kings (CSK) all-rounder Moeen Ali has opined that compatriot Ben Stokes could potentially succeed MS Dhoni as leader of the franchise. His statement came ahead of the crucial clash against the fierce rivals, Mumbai Indians, which will be played at the Wankhede Stadium on Saturday, April 8.
Notably, the MS Dhoni-led Super Kings signed Ben Stokes for a humongous sum of INR 16.25 crore in the mini-auction in December 2022. Moeen provided his take and said that it is a “chance” for Stokes to take over the reins and added that flamboyant opener Ruturaj Gaikwad too could be on the list.
“He’s really enjoying himself. I think there’s a chance [that Stokes succeeds Dhoni]; of course, there’s a chance, because he’s obviously done really well in Test cricket. But MS is still obviously in charge and he’s going to be captain for a while. We have some other guys as well: Ruturaj is a fantastic player with a good head on his shoulders, so it depends on what the franchise wants,” Moeen was quoted as saying by ESPNcricinfo.
At 41, Dhoni could be leading the side one final time in the ongoing season, however, there is no official confirmation from the skipper yet. In 2022, Ravindra Jadeja shouldered the responsibility but had to let go of the role following the dismal performances, which marked Dhoni’s return as the skipper.
CSK gears up for IPL’s ‘El Clasico’
MS Dhoni and Co. are gearing up for a mega clash against Rohit Sharma’s Mumbai Indians at the Wankhede Stadium on Saturday double-header. Chennai have had a mixed start to their campaign with one win and a loss whereas Mumbai had a forgetful outing against Royal Challengers Bangalore in their first outing.
Mumbai have the upper hand against CSK in head-to-head records, as they have MI have won 20 times to CSK’s 14. Rohit and Co. will look to bounce back from their recent loss and obtain their first points in the top-tier league.