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[Saba Sports News] While MS Dhoni remains the iconic figure of Chennai Super Kings (CSK), Ruturaj Gaikwad is being groomed as his successor. The Pune-born Gaikwad, now 27, was named CSK’s new captain for the IPL 2024 season, taking over from Dhoni. He has also represented India in several matches and led the team to a Gold Medal at last year’s Asian Games in China.
Gaikwad, known for his elegant batting style, joined CSK in 2019 and debuted in the IPL in 2020. Despite a challenging start with scores of 0, 5, and 0, he was supported by Dhoni and CSK, eventually hitting three consecutive fifties by the season’s end. He came into his own during the IPL 2021 season, clinching the Orange Cap and playing a crucial role in CSK’s championship win with 590 runs in IPL 2023.
Making his debut for India in 2021, Gaikwad has played 19 T20Is and 6 ODIs, achieving one T20I century and three fifties. As of 2024, his net worth is reported to be INR 36 crores, with a salary of INR 6 crores per season from CSK since 2022. His earnings are supplemented by match fees, domestic cricket, and endorsements, with an annual salary approximating INR 8 crores. Gaikwad endorses brands like Games 24X7, GO Kratos, Mount Road Social, SS Cricket Kits, and Social Offline, and enjoys driving his Audi and BMW.
Ruturaj Gaikwad married Utkarsha Pawar in June of the previous year.