'Sometimes people abuse so much': R Ashwin defends CSK captain Ruturaj Gaikwad amid criticism
Ravichandran Ashwin has defended Ruturaj Gaikwad against fan criticism following Chennai Super Kings' IPL 2026 playoff exit. Ashwin urged supporters to stop abusing the young captain, emphasizing that poor form is common and highlighting the increased competitiveness of the IPL. He noted Gaikwad's struggles as both batter and captain during the season.
Ravichandran Ashwin has come out strongly in support of Ruturaj Gaikwad following Chennai Super Kings’ disappointing IPL 2026 campaign, urging fans to stop abusing the young captain after the franchise’s playoff exit. CSK were officially eliminated from the tournament after suffering a crushing 89-run defeat against Gujarat Titans in Ahmedabad on May 21. Chennai ended the league stage with six wins and eight defeats, marking their third failure to qualify for the playoffs in the last four seasons, a rare downturn for one of the IPL’s most successful franchises.
The season also represented a major transition phase for CSK, especially in the absence of legendary skipper MS Dhoni, who did not feature in a single match during IPL 2026. With Gaikwad leading a young and injury-hit squad, the team struggled to maintain the consistency that once defined the Dhoni era. Speaking on his YouTube channel, Ashwin defended Gaikwad against the growing criticism from fans and stressed that poor form can happen to any player.
"I will maintain, Ruturaj is a good player, yes. Sometimes, people abuse so much, I don't know the reason. Ruturaj Gaikwad is not that kind of a player.
It can happen to anyone. Time can change for anyone. Take Ishan Kishan, for example.