After Chennai Super Kings (CSK) suffered a six-run defeat to Rajasthan Royals in IPL 2025, skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad admitted that his side lacked proactiveness during the opposition’s powerplay and highlighted key areas for improvement ahead of their next fixture.
Ruturaj Gaikwad Admits CSK Was Not Proactive Enough in Powerplay
Speaking at the post-match presentation, Ruturaj Gaikwad pointed out that CSK’s field placements and energy during the first six overs cost them dearly. Nitish Rana, who smashed 81 off just 36 balls, exploited the gaps effortlessly as CSK failed to adjust quickly.
“In the powerplay, during their batting, Nitish batted well, but we were not proactive. He was going behind square, so we had to be more ahead,” said Ruturaj Gaikwad
Highlighting the tactical lapse that allowed RR to score 79 in the powerplay.
Ruturaj Gaikwad Stresses on Need to Improve Fielding
The CSK skipper wasn’t shy to call out the fielding standards of his team either. According to Ruturaj Gaikwad, minor lapses on the field added up to cost them crucial runs, which proved to be decisive in a closely contested match.
“We gave 8-10 runs in misfields, and that is something we are looking to improve. That is something that is costing us,” Ruturaj Gaikwad stated, as he underlined the need for tighter fielding efforts.
CSK’s Chase Falters Despite a Fairly Good Pitch
Chasing 183 on a relatively batting-friendly surface, CSK fell short by six runs. Ruturaj Gaikwad, who has consistently emphasized execution in high-pressure chases, believed the target was within reach.
“180 was chaseable. It was still a good wicket. If you timed the ball well, it was a good wicket,” said Ruturaj Gaikwad
Expressing disappointment that CSK could not convert their chase into a win.
CSK’s Position on the Table After Back-to-Back Losses
Following their second consecutive defeat, CSK now sit at seventh place on the IPL 2025 points table with just two points from three games and a negative net run rate of -0.771. Ruturaj Gaikwad will now look to regroup his squad quickly as they prepare to face Delhi Capitals at their home ground on April 5.
Ruturaj Gaikwad’s Leadership Under Spotlight
This IPL marks Ruturaj Gaikwad’s first season as full-time captain of CSK, following MS Dhoni’s transition out of the leadership role. While Gaikwad has shown flashes of tactical maturity, the team’s inconsistency has prompted early concerns. Still, CSK fans have rallied behind the young skipper, hoping he can find his rhythm and lead the franchise to another strong campaign.
With the next match set against Axar Patel’s Delhi Capitals, all eyes will be on Ruturaj Gaikwad as he looks to inspire a CSK comeback and improve both fielding discipline and tactical execution.
