Chennai Super Kings skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad has not travelled to Chennai for the upcoming match against Gujarat Titans scheduled for April 26, 2026, This sudden departure is due to a family emergency that required his immediate presence at home. The departure occurred shortly after he captained CSK to a massive 103-run victory over Mumbai Indians at the Wankhede Stadium on April 23.While specific details of the emergency are private, the team management granted him leave on compassionate grounds.
However, he is now back and expected to participate in the team's evening practice session today. He is back in the camp and is expected to lead the side in tomorrow’s match against Gujarat Titans. While Dhoni has been recovering from a calf strain, Gaikwad's return means he will likely continue as captain, though Dhoni is also nearing full fitness and may feature in the playing XI.Gaikwad is set to open the innings alongside Sanju Samson, a combination the team has recently committed to for the 2026 season. Gaikwad’s brief absence followed a highly emotional game where he dedicated the win to teammate Mukesh Choudhary, who had just lost his mother. Gaikwad’s own immediate departure for a family emergency raised concerns, but his swift return indicates the situation has allowed him to rejoin the tournament.
CSK secures 103-run win against Mumbai Indians
Chennai Super Kings secured a historic 103-run victory against Mumbai Indians on April 23, 2026, at the Wankhede Stadium. This victory marked a significant turnaround for the franchise, propelling them to 5th place on the IPL 2026 points table. Sanju Samson anchored the innings with a brilliant unbeaten 101 off 54 balls, featuring 10 fours and 6 sixes. Impact Player Akeal Hosein dismantled the MI top order with a clinical 4/17, while Noor Ahmad added 2/23.Chasing 208, Mumbai Indians were bundled out for just 104 runs in 19 overs, marking their heaviest defeat in IPL history by runs.
Pacer Mukesh Choudhary played despite his mother's recent passing, taking the early wicket of Quinton de Kock. CSK now shares the record for most IPL wins at Wankhede with PBKS
