CSK Captain Ruturaj Gaikwad Reflects On Poor Form After Win Over KKR
Gaikwad admits early IPL 2026 struggles but says CSK win helps rebuild confidence and momentum.
Chennai Super Kings skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad has opened up about his poor run of form in the ongoing IPL 2026 season, admitting that recent struggles at the crease had begun to affect his mindset before a much-needed victory over Kolkata Knight Riders helped restore confidence within the camp.
Gaikwad has endured a difficult start to the season, scoring just 63 runs in five innings at an average of 12.60 and a strike rate of 105. His dismissals—6, 28, 7, 15 and 7—reflect an inconsistent run at the top of the order, with the CSK captain still searching for rhythm despite backing from the team management.
Following CSK’s 32-run win in Chennai, Gaikwad said the result brought significant relief after a challenging stretch. He admitted that pressure had begun to “get into his head” while batting, but added that the recent victory helped him reset mentally and regain a sense of calm and positivity.
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He also credited his teammates for stepping up and easing the burden on him during his lean patch. Gaikwad expressed confidence that a big individual score is “around the corner,” while emphasising the importance of contributing to the team’s needs even when personal form is lacking.
In the match, CSK posted a competitive 192/5, with key contributions from Sanju Samson and Dewald Brevis, before their bowlers executed plans effectively to restrict KKR to 160/7. Gaikwad said the bowling unit’s discipline, especially in the powerplay and middle overs, was crucial in defending the total on a surface that began to slow down.
He further noted that CSK’s bowling combinations are beginning to settle, with players increasingly clear about their roles and match-ups. According to him, this growing clarity within the attack is helping the team adapt better to conditions and improve performance in pressure situations.
With CSK gaining momentum after a slow start to the season and KKR still searching for their first win, Gaikwad’s comments underline both personal frustration and cautious optimism as the tournament progresses.
Also Read: CSK vs KKR IPL 2026 Predicted Playing XI And Squad Updates From Chepauk
