Chennai Super Kings (CSK) skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad came under severe scrutiny for his slow knock in the ongoing IPL 2026 clash against Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) at Chepauk on Monday (May 18).
In order to qualify for the playoffs, CSK are facing a must-win situation in their remaining league games and Gaikwad’s 15 runs off 21 balls at a strike rate of 71.43 didn’t help the team’s cause at all.
While his opening partner Sanju Samson (27 off 13 balls) batted with intent during the powerplay, Gaikwad remained circumspect in his approach. His aim to anchor the innings from one end perished in the 12th over as he was caught at deep mid-wicket off Pat Cummins' short ball.
Amid the criticism, CSK head coach Stephen Fleming came to Ruturaj Gaikwad’s defense, emphasizing that the captain’s role was to bat deep into the innings and anchor the team.
“I know it sounds old school, but we need one guy who bats through the innings. Rutu played a lot of cricket. He knows what's needed. We trust him in that,” Fleming said while speaking to broadcasters during the 10th over of CSK’s innings.
Fleming’s comment didn’t sit well with the frustrated CSK fans, who slammed the coach for defending a turtle-paced knock, not even including a single boundary.
Here are the reactions:
Chennai Super Kings currently sit fifth on the points table with six wins and as many defeats from 12 matches. They need to win against SRH tonight and also beat Gujarat Titans on May 21 in Ahmedabad to keep the playoffs hopes alive.
