'They have got the right captain' - AB de Villiers gives verdict on CSK's captaincy choice ahead of IPL 2026

Former South Africa and Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) star AB de Villiers has backed Ruturaj Gaikwad to remain the captain of Chennai Super Kings (CSK). This comes following the signing of Sanju Samson from Rajasthan Royals on a trade deal prior to the 2026 mini auction. 

De Villiers believes that CSK would not be thinking of replacing their captain anytime soon after handpicking Gaikwad to replace the legendary MS Dhoni and should questions on captaincy arise, the management should continue to back their pick in public.

Having first taken the reins of the five-time champions in 2024, Gaikwad’s injury last year saw him lead just five times. This year, the 29-year-old will be hoping to captain the whole season and further stamp his authority on a new-looking CSK side. 

"I obviously feel they have got the right captain, and I don't think they are in that mindset of possibly getting Sanju in as captain, and I think they have warmed up to Ruturaj over the last few years. Stick with the one guy, don't even entertain any of the media or the press coming out saying, 'Is Sanju going to be captain?' No one once again needs that in the CSK setup," AB de Villiers was quoted as saying on Star Sports.

"If those jets come up, and the questions, CSK should be direct, clear, and straight to the point that Ruturaj is our man, there are no talks about any other captain. Sanju, MS, and some of the other seniors play supporting roles," the South African added.

CSK will aim for a better season under the leadership of Gaikwad during the 2026 Indian Premier League (IPL) season. Having lifted the title in 2023, the team in yellow have not made it to the playoffs in their last two campaigns, as they finished fifth in 2024 before coming dead last in 2025. 

CSK will open their 2026 campaign at the Barsapara Stadium in Guwahati against hosts Rajasthan Royals. The Chennai-based outfit come with a lot of promise this season having reformed their side with youngsters like Dewald Brevis and the acquisition of Kartik Sharma and Prashant Veer for a combined INR 28.40 crore, along with the signing of an in-form Samson.