Kris Srikkanth Critiques Ruturaj Gaikwad's Captaincy After CSK's IPL Exit

In a recent critique, former Indian opener Kris Srikkanth has called for the Chennai Super Kings to release captain Ruturaj Gaikwad following the team's failure to qualify for the IPL playoffs for the third consecutive season. Srikkanth highlighted Gaikwad's disappointing performance, both as a batsman and captain, and suggested that CSK should aim to reacquire him at a lower price in the next auction. With Gaikwad's recent statistics showing a significant decline, the future of his role in CSK remains uncertain. Read on for more insights into Srikkanth's comments and the implications for CSK's strategy.

By Narendra Chaudhary May 22, 2026, 21:43 IST

Srikkanth's Strong Words for CSK's Captain

Following the Chennai Super Kings' elimination from the IPL playoffs, former Indian opener and chief selector Kris Srikkanth has expressed strong criticism towards captain Ruturaj Gaikwad. In a recent YouTube video, Srikkanth suggested that CSK should consider releasing Gaikwad, only to potentially reacquire him at a reduced price during the next auction. This marks the third consecutive season where CSK has not advanced to the playoff stage of the league.

In the current season, Gaikwad participated in 14 matches, accumulating just 337 runs. His batting average stood at a disappointing 28.08, complemented by a strike rate of 123.44. Additionally, Gaikwad's leadership has come under scrutiny, as he has faltered in crucial moments.

Strategic Changes Needed for CSK

Srikkanth emphasized that CSK should release Ruturaj in the upcoming auction, suggesting that it would be wise to attempt to bring him back at a lower cost. He believes the team requires a foreign opener capable of aggressive play from the outset, referencing the success of Finn Allen with the Kolkata Knight Riders. Srikkanth also mentioned that Gaikwad should ideally bat at the number three position, noting that being the second-highest run-scorer for CSK this season reflects the team's overall decline.

Concerns Over Gaikwad's Performance

CSK had retained Ruturaj for an impressive ₹18 crore prior to the mega auction. This season, he opened the innings alongside Sanju Samson. Srikkanth pointed out that while Gaikwad contributed significantly to CSK's championship victories in 2021 and 2023, his current form is far from satisfactory.

"This season, he has been a complete failure both as a captain and a batsman. In the last match, he played as if it were Test cricket. Had he scored just 15 more runs, Chennai could have clinched victory. While some may argue against judging a player based on one poor season, professional cricket does not allow for personal biases," Srikkanth stated.

"If he is released during the auction, I could potentially bring him back for half the price. Even if he joins another team, it wouldn't be detrimental for Chennai; they can always find a replacement, as they did with Devon Conway in the past."

Future Uncertain for Gaikwad

Srikkanth also indicated that Gaikwad may not fit into CSK's future plans. Over the last two IPL seasons, he has managed to score only 459 runs across 19 matches, a significant drop from his earlier performances where he consistently exceeded 550 runs for the franchise.

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