Ruturaj Gaikwad’s captaincy debut in the Indian Premier League (IPL) has been filled with ups and downs thus far. Gaikwad, who took over from the legendary MS Dhoni on the day of the IPL 2024 opening against Royal Challengers Bengaluru, has guided CSK to four wins in his first eight games in charge. With four wins in their first six games, CSK appeared to be on the right track. However, humiliating losses to Lucknow Super Giants at home and away in their last two games have put Gaikwad under a lot of pressure.

Fans and experts chastised him for their recent defeat at home to LSG, in which Marcus Stoinis’ power-hitting exposed CSK’s bowling and Gaikwad’s tactics.

Former CSK batter Ambati Rayudu had also attacked Gaikwad’s captaincy and field placements.

“Ruturaj Gaikwad made poor field placements during death overs. “We clearly saw a lack of experience as captain,” Rayudu had reportedly stated.

During the same discussion, former India batter Navjot Singh Sidhu said that if everyone praises MS Dhoni for CSK’s victories, he should also be held accountable for their losses.

“If you credit Dhoni for CSK wins, then criticise him for the defeats as well. Dhoni is the primary think tank,” Sidhu was reported as adding.

However, Rayudu has denied making such comments about Gaikwad, CSK, or even Dhoni.