Ruturaj Gaikwad says CSK will return as 'much more stronger unit' as IPL 2026 playoff hopes fade
Chennai Super Kings captain Ruturaj Gaikwad said he was "still proud of the boys" despite CSK suffering a five-wicket defeat to Sunrisers Hyderabad in Chennai on Monday. The defeat saw SRH chase down 181 in 19 overs through Ishan Kishan’s 70 off 47 balls and Heinrich Klaasen’s 47. The result also confirmed SRH’s qualification for the IPL 2026 playoffs along with Gujarat Titans.
Speaking after the match, Gaikwad said CSK remained in the contest till the closing stages. “It was pretty tight right till the end. I thought, you know, a good game of cricket.
Obviously, we were into the game until the second last over. And I think (it was) a good T20 pitch as well. I think it didn't change much throughout the course of the game.
And I thought 180 runs was a rounded about par score, chasing the second batting. So, a good game. Just missed out on few, but I mean, that's okay.
Still proud of the boys,” Gaikwad said. The CSK skipper felt his side failed to build pressure after taking wickets. "I think nothing actually, just cashing in on the opportunity right after you take a wicket.