Days ahead of the start of the 2022 season of the Indian Premier League, Chennai Super Kings four-time IPL winning captain M.S. Dhoni has stepped down from the post of captaincy that he has held for 14 years.
The team released a statement saying that Dhoni is handing over the role of captain to national team all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja, who has been part of the team since 2012.
Jadeja becomes only the third player to captain the team, Suresh Raina being the other. Dhoni will continue to play this season, but will take a lesser role as the team prepares for life after the legendary captain.
The 2011 World Cup-winning skipper has been synonymous with the team ever since he was bought in the first IPL auction in 2008.
There was much speculation last year about the 40-year-old's involvement in the upcoming edition of the IPL, but the rumours of his exit were put to rest when the team retained him ahead of the mega auction.
Jadeja, 33, is still an active member of the national team and will take over the mantle of a side that he has shone for over the last nine years.
Chennai Super Kings, the defending champions, will take on Kolkata Knight Riders in the opening match of the 2022 season on March 26, Saturday.
