Former India and Chennai Super Kings batsman Robin Uthappa has backed Ruturaj Gaikwad to continue as CSK captain for IPL 2026, rejecting suggestions that Sanju Samson take over the role. Uthappa believes the franchise needs to be patient as Gaikwad grows into leadership during a crucial transition phase.
Samson’s arrival in Chennai after a major deal ahead of IPL 2026 sparked fresh captaincy speculation, but CSK were quick to confirm that Gaikwad would remain in charge. In an interview on JioHotstar’s TATA IPL: Out or Out of the Park, Uthappa explained how continuity would benefit the team.
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“I don’t think CSK should hand over the leadership duties to Sanju Samson. You have to give Ruturaji Gaikwad time to settle in as captain. He has been leading the team since 2024. No matter what people say, he is coming out of MS Dhoni’s shadow. You want him to come out completely and stand in his own light. You want to see what he can produce.” Uthappa
“You want him to lead the team when the WC is not playing and stand on his own, without the overwhelming feeling that he is always under that energy. IPL 2026 will probably be his last year in the yellow jersey. I see him playing more of a mentor-cum-player role this year. I think he will. Only then will we see the true potential of Ruturaj Gaikwad if Sanju can always stand up to him as captain.” to handle the captain’s duties in the team,” he added.
Gaikwad’s tenure as captain saw mixed returns yet. He took charge in 2024 and continued into the 2025 season before injury sidelined him and forced MS Dhoni back into the role. Even then, CSK endured a difficult campaign and finished at the bottom of the table for the first time in IPL history.
CSK’S CAPTAIN’S DILEMMA
The decision to stick with Gaikwad reflects CSK’s long-term thinking. One of their most consistent players, the Maharashtra batsman has scored 2502 runs in 71 matches since his debut in 2020 at an average of 40.35 and a strike rate of 137.47.
However, stepping out of Dhoni’s shadow remains a significant challenge. Dhoni is expected to take up a limited-overs role and perhaps nearing the end of his IPL journey, the onus on Gaikwad will only increase. At the same time, the presence of Samson provides CSK with a strong backup option that ensures competition within the leading group.
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Issued by:
Debodinna Chakraborty
Published on:
21 March 2026 20:01 IST
