IPL 2026 | 'His mind appears to be cluttered': Ashwin's blunt take on CSK captain Ruturaj Gaikwad
Chennai Super Kings are struggling in IPL 2026, currently seventh with a 2-4 record. Skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad's form is a major concern, with just 82 runs in six matches. Former India spinner R Ashwin believes Gaikwad missed a prime opportunity to regain form against Sunrisers Hyderabad, suggesting he's under immense pressure.
NEW DELHI: Chennai Super Kings are enduring a tough IPL 2026 season. They are currently seventh on the points table with two wins and four defeats from six matches, and one of the key reasons behind their struggles has been skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad’s poor form with the bat. Gaikwad has managed just 82 runs in six matches at an average of 13.
66, with a strike rate of 112. 33. Former India off-spinner R Ashwin believes Gaikwad missed a golden opportunity to return to form during CSK’s match against Sunrisers Hyderabad, especially after Ayush Mhatre provided a flying start.
CSK, who had won two matches on the trot, went down by 10 runs to SRH on Saturday. After posting 194/9, powered by half-centuries from Abhishek Sharma and Heinrich Klaasen, SRH restricted CSK to 184/8. "It was the best chance for him to score runs.
He didn't need to take risks or score at a fast pace because of the way Ayush Mhatre started. They were running away with the powerplay. It was right there for Ruturaj to take some time, score some runs, and come back into form.