Chennai Super Kings (CSK) captain Ruturaj Gaikwad is uncertain for their upcoming match against Delhi Capitals after injuring his elbow in the team’s previous game against Rajasthan Royals. Gaikwad was struck on the elbow while batting and visibly showed signs of pain. Despite the discomfort, he managed to continue batting and even scored his second half-century of the season. However, it was told that after the match, the elbow remained sore, and Gaikwad did not train for a couple of days in the build-up to CSK’s next game.
CSK’s batting coach Michael Hussey shared an update on Gaikwad’s fitness on the eve of the match. Hussey remained hopeful that Gaikwad would recover in time to play, but emphasized that the final decision would depend on how he feels after a training session on Friday, April 4. “He’s going to try and have a bat today for training. It’s still a little bit sore, but it’s improving every day. We are hopeful and confident that he will be fine for tomorrow,” Hussey said.
CSK Coach Suggests MSD “Can do a good job” in Ruturaj Gaikwad’s Absence
Gaikwad, who is an important player for CSK, has been crucial to the team’s batting lineup, especially since they have struggled in that area early this season. Given that CSK is looking for a win after suffering two losses in a row, Gaikwad’s availability would be a big boost for the team. If Gaikwad is unable to play, Hussey suggested that there could be an interesting twist in the leadership role.
Hussey hinted that MS Dhoni, CSK’s former captain, might take charge once again. Dhoni, known for his leadership skills, could step in as captain if Gaikwad is unavailable, but Hussey said it would depend on what decision Stephen Fleming (the team’s head coach) and Gaikwad himself make. “I’m sure Fleming and Rutu have thought about that. But we’ve got a young guy coming through who’s behind the stumps. Maybe he can do a good job,” Hussey said, possibly referring to the emerging talent in CSK’s squad. He also acknowledged that the young player has some experience in leadership, though Hussey wasn’t certain if that would be the route they would go.
The situation remains fluid, and CSK fans will have to wait until the team’s final training session before the match to know for sure whether Gaikwad will be fit to play. Regardless of the outcome, CSK will be eager to get back to winning ways after their recent setbacks.
Also read: Why MS Dhoni is Batting Lower in IPL 2025? CSK Coach Explains
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