IPL 2024

Moeen Ali’s sensational statement gives major hint on Ben Stokes succeeding MS Dhoni as CSK’s captain

When Chennai Super Kings (CSK) signed England Test captain Ben Stokes for INR 16.25 crore in December’s mini-auction for the Indian Premier League 2023 season, it sparked speculation that it was a move by MS Dhoni to select his successor.

Earlier, Ravindra Jadeja was being looked at as a possible successor, but the doors seem to have shut on that one. Jadeja was appointed as the captain in 2022, but the poor performance of the team and a rift with the management meant Dhoni took back the captaincy mid-season.

Even though there has yet to be a clear indication or statement from the franchise, Moeen Ali responded to the team captaincy debate. Moeen believes Stokes’ impressive record makes him a strong candidate to replace Dhoni, but he also hinted that the move might not happen right away.

“He’s (Ben Stokes) really enjoying himself. CSK is the type of franchise where you come here and you do tend to enjoy yourself and really love playing for this franchise. He’s settled in really well. He’s a big part of the team with his experience,” Moeen said.

When asked if the England Test captain is a member of CSK’s leadership team, Moeen replied: “There’s no real such leadership group: you have the captain and the coaches, and they talk. If Dhoni wants Ben Stokes’ advice or a chat with him, it’s a very open environment in that changing room.”

MS is still obviously in charge and he’s going to be captain for a while: Moeen Ali

Despite the presence of Stokes, the all-rounder hinted that Dhoni is likely to continue as CSK captain. “I think there’s a chance [that Stokes succeeds Dhoni]; of course there’s a chance, because he’s obviously done really well in Test cricket,” Moeen said.

“But MS is still obviously in charge and he’s going to be captain for a while. We have some other guys as well: Ruturaj is a fantastic player with a good head on his shoulders, so it depends on what the franchise wants,” he added.