Ruturaj Gaikwad had differences with Ravindra Jadeja? CSK captain reveals what happened in dressing room

Chennai Super Kings (CSK) skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad shared his experience of managing senior players like MS Dhoni, Ravindra Jadeja, and Ajinkya Rahane in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024. Ruturaj Gaikwad mentioned that he found it easy to work with the senior players in his maiden season as captain of the IPL.

Ruturaj Gaikwad took on the responsibility of leading the five-time IPL champions in the IPL 2024 season. The legendary MS Dhoni stepped down from the captaincy before the IPL 2024 opener. Notably, the former CSK skipper led the Yellow Army to five title wins (2010, 2011, 2018, 2021, and 2023) in the tournament.

Ruturaj Gaikwad faced a challenging task, but he embraced the opportunity confidently. The experienced MS Dhoni provided Gaikwad with a sense of security from behind the stumps. The wicketkeeper-batter guided the young CSK skipper in decision-making, field placements, and the strategic deployment of bowlers.

The Super Kings failed to secure a spot in the playoffs during IPL 2024. CSK was eliminated from playoff contention following a loss against the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB). They finished fifth in the league standings with seven wins and seven losses but fell short of qualification due to a lower net run rate (NRR).

I Am Very Approachable For All Teammates - Ruturaj Gaikwad

Ruturaj Gaikwad shared his experience of leading MS Dhoni, Ravindra Jadeja, and Ajinkya Rahane. Gaikwad expressed feeling comfortable and approachable to his teammates from the beginning of the tournament. He emphasized that their experience was valuable in managing match situations.

"I felt good right from the start (of the tournament). I am very approachable to all teammates whenever needed and they always support the team in whatever way the team requires," Ruturaj said.

"I wouldn't say it’s difficult as all of them are very understanding. All the senior players that are a part of the team are great to be with. Their experience always helps with match situations," he added.

Ruturaj Gaikwad emerged as CSK's top run-scorer in the tournament. Gaikwad scored 583 runs in 14 matches with an average of 53.00 and a strike rate of 141.16, including one century and four half-centuries. Gaikwad is the second-leading run-getter in the ongoing edition, trailing behind Virat Kohli.

I Have learned from Mahi Bhai - Ruturaj Gaikwad

Ruturaj Gaikwad expressed gratitude towards CSK fans for accepting the change in leadership. Gaikwad mentioned that he learned from MS Dhoni to remain neutral, and not get overly excited or down.

"Being neutral is something that I have learned from Mahi bhai. Not getting too excited about anything or being down by anything is the right approach that I have picked up. While batting irrespective of being captain or not, my approach is always the same. Doesn’t really change a lot. You cannot plan to become leaders so being good team players and putting the team first will always stand a good chance to be one," the CSK skipper added.

Also read: KKR vs SRH: "His strategy is spot on..." - Shreyas Iyer credits Gautam Gambhir for KKR's success in IPL 2024