as Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 enters a decisive phase, Chennai Super Kings (CSK) they seem to be finding their rhythm again, climbing the scoreboard with clinical performances. However, a significant shadow looms over the team’s revival: the inconsistent form of their captain, Ruturaj Gaikwad. Although the Yellow Army have been praised for their tactical stability, the skipper’s personal struggles at the helm of the team have led to intense debate among pundits about his role in the playing XI.
CSK find momentum amid Ruturaj Gaikwad’s lean patch
After a shaky start to the season, the Super Kings are back to winning ways. The middle order has risen and the bowling unit looks sharper than ever. However, the boot slot remains a point of weakness. Usually the cornerstone of the CSK innings, Gaikwad has struggled to provide the explosive starts required in the Powerplay. Although the team won, its inability to convert starts or maintain a high strike rate put too much pressure on the later hitters, leading many to wonder if a tactical personnel change was necessary to optimize the team’s balance.
Irfan Pathan picks Ruturaj’s ideal innings to regain his form
Former Indian all-rounder and cricket analyst Irfan Pathan pondering the dilemma, suggested that Gaikwad’s current batting philosophy is better suited for the one-down position than the opening slot. Analyzing the captain’s recent performance, Pathan pointed out that Gaikwad’s low-risk approach hampered the team’s momentum in the Powerplay.
“Ruturaj Gaikwad’s approach to batting should definitely be looked at. Considering his approach in the last match, he faced 17 balls and his control percentage was excellent. It means he didn’t take too many risks and didn’t want to play too aggressively. He didn’t want to lose his wicket,” Pathan said on his YouTube channel.
Pathan felt that if Gaikwad is going to play the role of an anchor who prefers wicket-keeping, he needs to move down the order.
“Then just play at number three. If he wants to continue with that approach, he has to bat at number 3. But if he wants to open, he will have to change his approach like Ruturaj Gaikwad.” Pathan added.
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Relegation management: The way forward for CSK
Dealing with a captain’s lean patch is a delicate task for any franchise. For CSK, the solution may lie in flexibility. By moving Gaikwad to No. 3, the management can combine a more aggressive ‘pinch batsman’ or natural batsman with another opener to maximize the Powerplay overs. This shift will allow Gaikwad to build an innings without the immediate pressure of fielding restrictions.
If Gaikwad can rediscover his aggressive intent, he remains one of the most dangerous openers in the league. If not, a move into the No. 3 anchor role could be just what he and Chennai need for another title.
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