Shane Watson RIPS APART Ruturaj Gaikwad after CSK vs RCB match

Former Australia all-rounder Shane Watson expressed his confusion over Chennai Super Kings’ (CSK) decisions during their match against Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB). Watson questioned the decision to have Rahul Tripathi open the batting in place of Ruturaj Gaikwad, who is a top-quality opener.

Chennai Super Kings lost to Royal Challengers Bangalore by 50 runs at the MA Chidambaram Stadium on Friday, March 28. This defeat marked CSK's first home loss to RCB in 17 years. The outcome was one-sided as the Super Kings failed to perform against a quality RCB bowling attack, led by Josh Hazlewood.

It Was Disappointing to See Certain Decisions - Shane Watson

Shane Watson said that Ruturaj Gaikwad's demotion in the batting order was unexpected. He also pointed out that one of Gaikwad’s shots, against Josh Hazlewood, was unlike his usual style.

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"It was disappointing to see certain decisions, like Rahul Tripathi opening the batting. Ruturaj Gaikwad is a quality opener, yet he had to come in later. Even one of the shots Ruturaj played, where he gave himself room against Hazlewood, was uncharacteristic," Watson said.

"Normally, he stands still and reacts, but this showed he was under pressure. Deepak Hooda, at the moment, just isn't up to it; he played each ball as if he was trying to survive," he added.

Ruturaj Gaikwad's Captaincy Faces Criticism After Humiliating Loss

Chennai Super Kings' top and middle order faltered, with skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad dismissed for a four-ball duck while batting at number three. This marked Gaikwad's second consecutive duck against RCB. The right-handed batter attempted a big shot off Josh Hazlewood but was caught at deep square leg.

Ruturaj Gaikwad's captaincy has also faced criticism due to some questionable bowling changes that allowed RCB to gain momentum. Many believe the Super Kings are lacking the strategic intelligence required. He took over from MS Dhoni ahead of IPL 2024, where CSK failed to make it to the playoffs.

CSK Hasn't Found the Right Combinations - Shane Watson

Shane Watson said Sam Curran, who batted at number five, is better suited for the number seven position. He pointed out that the Chennai Super Kings have yet to find the right combinations and need to make adjustments.

"Batting Sam Curran at No. 5 was also questionable. I see him as more of a No. 7 batter. Right now, CSK hasn't got their combinations right, and they need to make a few adjustments. If they persist with this batting line-up, they risk being exposed," Watson said.

Chennai Super Kings have lost three of their last six matches at the MA Chidambaram Stadium. They suffered defeats to Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) and Punjab Kings (PBKS) in the latter half of the 2024 season.

CSK has won one and lost one match so far this season, and will next face the Rajasthan Royals in Guwahati on Sunday. The Men in Yellow will play their next home match on Saturday, April 5, against Delhi Capitals (DC).

Also read: Cheteshwar Pujara reacts to Stephen Fleming's ‘No home advantage at Chepauk' remark