IPL 2026: ‘Captain influenced Ruturaj Gaikwad’s batting’ – Ashwin’s blunt verdict on CSK

Chennai Super Kings captain Ruturaj Gaikwad (AP Photo) Ravichandran Ashwin believes the pressure from Chennai Super Kings leaders during the difficult post-MS Dhoni transition has started to affect Ruturaj Gaikwad’s batting after yet another disappointment for the CSK skipper in IPL 2026. Speaking to JioHotstar after Chennai’s five-wicket defeat against Sunrisers Hyderabad in Chepauk, Ashwin said the franchise is going through a rebuilding phase and warned that expectations around CSK remain unrealistically high due to the standards set during the Dhoni era. “Chennai Super Kings are clearly in a transition phase in the post-Dhoni era. It is important that everyone involved – fans, stakeholders and the team – realize that rebuilding takes time,” Ashwin said. “The standards and expectations attached to CSK are incredibly high because of their heritage, but this group needs space and patience as they develop.” Ashwin’s comments came after another difficult innings from Gaikwad, who struggled for rhythm during Chennai’s innings and managed just 15 off 21 balls before falling to Pat Cummins. On a surface where timing was difficult but aggressive stroke play was still possible, the CSK skipper once again looked lackluster while other batsmen around him scored at a much faster rate. Ashwin felt that Gaikwad’s natural batting game may now weigh heavily with the added responsibility of captaincy. “At the same time, the added responsibility of captaincy seems to have affected Ruturaj Gaikwad’s batting. T20 cricket is already demanding and carrying the burden of leadership along with expectations from a franchise like CSK can take a significant toll on a player,” Ashwin added. The defeat left Chennai’s playoff hopes hanging in the balance while SRH officially secured qualification for the IPL 2026 playoffs. Hyderabad chased down 181 in 19 overs, with Ishan Kishan leading the charge through a composed 70 off 47 balls, while Heinrich Klaasen provided momentum with a quick-fire 47. The win took SRH to 16 points from 13 matches and confirmed their place in the playoffs alongside Royal Challengers Bengaluru and Gujarat Titans.

What aspect of CSK’s game needs to improve the most?

Earlier, CSK posted 180/7 after positive contributions from Sanju Samson, youngster Kartik Sharma and Dewald Brevis who top-scored with 44. But Gaikwad’s slow innings again became the talking point as Chennai failed to take full advantage of their strong start. Cummins bowled for Hyderabad, finishing with figures of 3/28 and also becoming only the latest bowler to complete 200 T20 wickets. Young pacers Sakib Husain and Praful Hinge chipped in with two wickets each as SRH tightened their grip on the contest.