Chennai Super Kings captain Ruturaj Gaikwad (PTI Photo) Ruturaj Gaikwad reflected on the team’s complete performance after leading Chennai Super Kings to an impressive eight-wicket victory over Mumbai Indians, a result that kept their playoff hopes alive. Gaikwad, who was bowled for his unbeaten 67, was named man of the match and highlighted how CSK managed to regain control after a brief spell of pressure. “It feels good. We got off to a really good start, the first couple of overs, then they got the momentum and we pulled it off,” he said, noting the ability of the bowlers to respond under pressure. MI reached 57 for 1 in the over, but the CSK attack led by Noor Ahmad (2/26) and Anshul Kamboj (3/32) tightened the screws through the middle overs. Gaikwad was particularly pleased with Kamboja’s approach, saying, “He’s someone who keeps it really simple, sticks to the process and has a mind that thinks like a beating mind.” He also noted Noor’s improvement, adding that the spinner “has made some adjustments and is working really well”. CSK for 160 lost Sanju Samson early to Jasprit Bumrah, but Gaikwad emphasized the importance of one of the top three batsmen. “It was about getting through the first couple of overs and then it was about one of the top three staying there,” he explained. He anchored the innings alongside Kartik Sharma, who impressed with an unbeaten 54. Gaikwad praised the youngster, saying, “A good confidence booster for him and us. Yes, he is a six-hitter but he has a second game too but he picks and chooses specific deliveries.” Gaikwad also shed light on the team selection decision and explained the balance that CSK sought by opting for all-rounders. “We were thinking about how to get the balance right, how to get batting at eight and an extra bowler. Veer and Ghosh are someone who can contribute to both.” He mirrored his own form and remained composed. “As I always say, I felt good, I felt confident, but it’s T20 cricket. I was in a good mood and it was just a matter of time.” The win kept CSK firmly in the playoffs and Gaikwad emphasized the team’s simple approach going forward: “Mistakes will happen but we have to make sure we come back strong, give everything for the jersey and the fans.”
