Chennai Super Kings (CSK) might have got the winning formula as they won back-to-back games against Delhi Capitals and Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) after their three straight defeats in the ongoing IPL 2026, but their captain Ruturaj Gaikwad’s form remains a big headache for them.
Ruturaj Gaikwad is going through a tough time with the bat in the ongoing IPL 2026, and it is clearly showing in his numbers. The Chennai Super Kings captain has scored only 63 runs in 5 matches so far at a very low average of 12 and strike rate of just above 100.
CSK back on track, but Ruturaj Gaikwad’s form still a big concern
Opening the batting in T20 needs fearless intent, and Gaikwad looks a bit too careful and unable to play aggressive cricket; as a result, CSK managed to cross the 200-run mark in only one game, and that too because of Sanju Samson’s century against Delhi Capitals at Chepauk.
Read Also: MS Dhoni IPL 2026 comeback vs SRH confirmed? Final decision out on…
He also failed to deliver against KKR. Gaikwad tried to attack early but ended up losing his wicket for just 7 runs off 6 balls. But the young batter Ayush Mhatre looked more confident, attacking, and he showed more intent. One major problem for the Chennai Super Kings captain has been spin bowling this season.
The Maharashtra batter has already been out to spinners three times in the powerplay, and now teams are using this weakness against him in the ongoing IPL 2026. There is also pressure of captaincy on him. It seems extra responsibility is affecting Gaikwad’s natural batting style.
Irfan Pathan suggests new role for Ruturaj Gaikwad
Reacting to his slump, former Indian all-rounder Irfan Pathan has pointed out that Gaikwad’s current approach looks more suited for a middle-order position, where he can control the innings without pressure.
The commentator has openly said that opening the batting in the modern T20 game needs fearless intent, and that is where the Chennai Super Kings skipper is struggling right now.
Pathan said in a video on his YouTube channel: “Ruturaj Gaikwad’s batting approach definitely needs attention. If his approach in the last match is considered, he faced 17 balls and his control percentage was excellent. It means he did not take much risk and was not looking to play too aggressively.
He did not want to lose his wicket. Then just play at number three. If he wants to continue with this approach, he should bat at No. 3. But if he wants to open, then as Ruturaj Gaikwad, his approach will have to change.”
Sadagoppan Ramesh urges Ruturaj Gaikwad to ‘Think Like a Batter’ to overcome tough phase
Meanwhile, former Indian batter Sadagoppan Ramesh believes that Gaikwad needs to clear his mind and said that the CSK captain should not mix captaincy pressure with batting. He suggested the right-handed batter must think like a pure batter when he comes to open for CSK.
Ramesh on his YouTube channel: “Right now, too many things are running in his mind. It’s important he comes in as only a batter when he walks out to bat. Most captains can’t do that, though. When you bring the captain tag along while batting, too many things run through your head.”
He added, “He should talk to himself as a captain and ask himself to bat freely. If he also combines with Sanju, it’s one of the best pairs of the IPL.”
Read Also: Nicholas Pooran has a health issue: Irfan Pathan makes shocking claim while slamming LSG star
