Sanjay Manjrekar has launched a scathing critique against the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) management, accusing the franchise of mishandling the leadership transition and allowing a “culture of sycophancy” around MS Dhoni to destabilize the team. Speaking on Sportstar’s Insight Edge podcast as the 2026 IPL season reaches its midpoint, the former India cricketer suggested that the obsession with Dhoni’s brand has come at the expense of current captain Ruturaj Gaikwad’s performance.
The “Dhoni Shadow” and Gaikwad’s Struggle
Manjrekar pointed directly to the team’s hierarchy for the lack of clarity regarding Dhoni’s status. The veteran wicketkeeper has been sidelined for three weeks due to a calf strain sustained just before the tournament, yet the uncertainty surrounding his return continues to loom over the squad.
- Captaincy Confusion: Manjrekar argued that having Dhoni on the field without the captaincy—or vice versa—has created a cluttered environment for Gaikwad.
- Form Slump: Before taking the reins, Gaikwad was one of the league’s most prolific openers. This season, however, he has managed just 82 runs in six innings at a strike rate of 112.
- The “Sycophancy” Trap: Manjrekar noted that the fanfare has reached a level where objective analysis is impossible. He recalled being labeled “anti-Dhoni” simply for correctly pointing out a missed crease in a run-out call, stating, “This is where you see the sycophancy of Indian culture that has seeped into cricket.”
CSK’s 2026 Campaign Snapshot
The off-field drama is reflected in CSK’s inconsistent on-field results, as they currently sit 7th in the standings.
| Metric | Current Season Status (April 20, 2026) |
| Team Record | 2 Wins / 4 Losses |
| Gaikwad’s Average | 13.66 |
| Dhoni’s Status | Out (Rehabilitating calf injury) |
| Next Big Clash | vs. Mumbai Indians (April 23) |
“Living in the Past”
The veteran commentator also compared CSK to the Mumbai Indians, suggesting both franchises are “guilty of being emotionally invested in big-name players” long past their prime. He criticized the hype surrounding Dhoni’s three-ball cameos in previous years as a “bit of a joke,” arguing that a modern T20 side needs to stay “current” rather than relying on nostalgia.
