As Chennai Super Kings gear up to host Lucknow Super Giants at Chepauk on Monday, the five-time champions find themselves in unfamiliar territory, battling both form and fitness concerns in IPL 2025. In a season marred by inconsistency and injury setbacks, CSK will be hoping to turn the tide and reclaim their dominance at home.

A significant blow came with the injury to regular captain Ruturaj Gaikwad, who has been ruled out for the remainder of the tournament. With the leadership reins once again falling to MS Dhoni, the franchise faces a crucial phase where every match could define their playoff hopes. The big question now remains: who will fill the void left by Gaikwad at the top of the order?