Chennai Super Kings’ struggles at the top of the order continued in their IPL 2025 clash against Rajasthan Royals and Ruturaj Gaikwad’s post-match comments suggested he isn’t entirely convinced about the team’s current strategy.
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CSK -- chasing 183 -- struggled early as Rachin Ravindra fell for a duck in the very first over and Rahul Tripathi also struggled to get going. Gaikwad -- batting at No. 3 -- played a composed knock of 63 but couldn’t prevent his side from falling short by six runs.
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When asked about his batting position, the CSK captain’s response hinted at dissatisfaction with the team’s decision-making.
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What did Ruturaj Gaikwad say taking a subtle dig at Rahul Tripathi?
Gaikwad explained that the decision to bat at No. 3 was made during the auction and that he had accepted the role without complaints. However, his remark about getting to bat in the first two overs of all three innings this season subtly pointed to CSK’s inability to build a solid opening stand.
“I think over the years we had Ajinkya Rahane at No. 3 and Ambati Rayudu taking care of the middle order. We thought it is better that I come one down, and Rahul Tripathi, who is known to play aggressive roles, can go out there and free himself,” Gaikwad said post the match.
“But there is not much difference because I am getting to bat in the second or third over in the three innings I've batted. Me batting at Number 3 was decided in the auction and I was convinced. I don’t have a problem wherever it is required. I can take risks when needed and rotate strike; that is what we need from a No. 3 when you have Shivam Dube, who can take on spinners after that,” he added.
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Despite Gaikwad’s composed knock -- CSK once again fell behind the required rate due to a sluggish start. Rahul Tripathi -- who was promoted as an aggressor -- scored only 23 off 19 balls before getting dismissed by Wanindu Hasaranga.
“Unfortunately, we have not been able to get a good start. Once we get that going, I feel we are going to be a really good side,” Gaikwad concluded.
With two losses in three games -- CSK needs to reassess its batting approach at the top. If their current opening combination continues to fail -- a reshuffle could be on the cards sooner rather than later.