Maybe it is the pressure of having to perform in a stage as big as the famed Indian Premier League, which also brings up the challenge of withstanding so much scrutiny that is so naturally all around. 

Maybe, it is the responsibility - an onerous one at that- of leading a side as huge as the iconic Chennai Super Kings. 

Quite frankly; it’s more than just a team

Maybe, it’s all of this and more. But one can say the pressure of having to lead by an example has somewhere, somewhere at least, blunted the blade of under pressure CSK captain Ruturaj Gaikwad. 

The famous Chennai Super Kings opener Ruturaj Gaikwad has endured a slow start to his IPL 2026 campaign, with the right-hander still searching for his first 30-plus score of the season.

Across the opening matches, Gaikwad’s returns have been modest—6 (11), 28 (22), 7 (3), 15 (18), and 7 (6)—highlighting a lack of consistency at the top of the order. Known for his elegant stroke play and ability to anchor innings, the opener has struggled to convert starts into meaningful contributions.

That said, just imagine that the right hander’s highest score is that 28. Which also wasn’t a quickfire inning, taking twenty two deliveries for it to happen. 

His subdued form has raised concerns for Chennai Super Kings, particularly given his importance to the team’s batting structure. Gaikwad has been a key figure in previous seasons, often providing stability and setting the tone in the powerplay.

A lack of runs

However, this season has seen him unable to find momentum, with early dismissals and a lack of fluency disrupting his rhythm. While the intent has been visible in patches, the execution has not followed through.

Despite the lean run, Gaikwad’s pedigree and past performances suggest that a turnaround could be imminent. The CSK management will be hoping the opener rediscovers form quickly as the tournament progresses, especially with tougher fixtures ahead.

What to expect ahead?

For now, though, all eyes remain on whether Gaikwad can break the pattern and deliver the kind of innings he is known for.