Ruturaj Gaikwad comes straight to the point as CSK remain winless in IPL 2026: ‘That is what cost us’

Ruturaj Gaikwad blamed his side's Impact Player tactics as CSK lost to PBKS on Friday.

Updated on: Apr 4, 2026, 06:12:38 IST

Written by Neelav Chakravarti

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Ruturaj Gaikwad was brutally honest after Chennai Super Kings' defeat against Punjab Kings in their second IPL 2026 fixture at Chepauk on Friday. The franchise are winless after their opening two games and are also dealing with injuries. Also veteran MS Dhoni has been out of action due to injury.

Ruturaj Gaikwad-led CSK crashed to their second straight defeat in IPL 2026. (PTI)

Against PBKS, Kartik Sharma was used as a batter in the first innings, but he was dismissed for one off three balls. Then in the second innings, he was replaced by Impact Player Rahul Chahar, who also ended up having a poor outing. Chahar bowled four overs, leaking 46 runs at an economy of 11.50.

Also Read: Sanju Samson fails again at Chepauk, CSK opener's troubling record worsens after early dismissal vs PBKS

‘I think that is what cost us’: Ruturaj Gaikwad

Explaining the Impact Player decision, Gaikwad also felt that it cost them the match. Speaking in the post-match presentation, he said, "Yes, we felt we had three seamers in going in, and obviously we have two good wristspinners bowling in tandem, especially in the middle after the powerplay. We felt that, you know, it will help. But I think, you know, slight off day for both of them, so I think that is what cost us."

CSK batted well in the fisrt innings as Ayush Mhatre's 73 took them to 209/5 in 20 overs. Meanwhile, Shivam Dube smacked an unbeaten knock of 45* runs off 27 balls. But a poor bowling display saw PBKS cruise to 210/5 in 18/4 overs.

"Well, I think, you know, a mixture of both. Sometimes we executed really well. Sometimes we just didn't execute at the right time, I would say. Just when the over was going really well, we conceded that six or a boundary either way," Gaikwad said, regarding his side's bowling.

"So I think the pressure didn't really build. I think there was a point where it went to 11 an over and then maybe a couple of good overs from there. It would have climbed to 12 and 13. That's how you gain momentum. So I think we just didn't got the momentum in the middle. It's definitely a tough one, but as I said, a lot of positives. You know, the batting came out really well. Ayush batted brilliantly. You know, to have him, have him that confidence going ahead in the season and definitely Shivam batted really well. So yeah, batting wise, we had good confidence. You know, bowling, yes, definitely a lot to improve", he added.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Neelav Chakravarti
Neelav Chakravarti has been part of the digital sports team at Hindustan Times since 2022, where he covers a wide range of disciplines, including chess, cricket, football, and Olympic sports. Working in a fast-paced digital newsroom, he regularly handles live blogs, breaking updates, and trending stories, combining speed with clarity to keep readers informed in real time. Chess remains both a professional beat and a personal passion for Neelav, and he closely tracks major international tournaments, player narratives, and emerging talents. He is particularly fascinated by the patience, calculation, and strategic depth the game demands, often exploring the psychological side of competition in his writing. Beyond sports journalism, Neelav has a deep interest in visual storytelling and filmmaking, actively participating in film festivals and engaging with independent cinema. He is especially drawn to films that capture the subtleties of everyday life and human relationships, appreciating storytelling that balances realism with emotional depth. This creative interest complements his approach to sports coverage, where he enjoys highlighting the human stories behind performances and results. A history enthusiast by academic training, Neelav holds a bachelor’s degree in the subject and maintains a sustained interest in ancient and medieval Indian history, particularly in cultural and social transitions across eras. His curiosity about the past often shapes his perspective on contemporary narratives and long-form storytelling. When he isn’t tracking scores or developing storylines, Neelav enjoys spending time over the chessboard, relaxing with his cats, or listening to the Empire podcast by Anita Anand and William Dalrymple. He also enjoys reading long-form sports writing that explores the emotional and cultural layers of sport, while maintaining a quiet routine that balances reading, reflection, and occasional time with friends.Read More

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