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Chennai Super Kings (CSK) captain Ruturaj Gaikwad opened up after the team was knocked out of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 following a crushing 89-run defeat against the Gujarat Titans (GT).
During the post-match interaction, Gaikwad reflected on CSK’s disappointing campaign, injury setbacks, and also addressed the biggest talking point surrounding the franchise — whether MS Dhoni will return next season.
Ruturaj Gaikwad opens up on MS Dhoni’s future
Speaking after the defeat, Gaikwad admitted that CSK struggled throughout the season due to injuries and lack of experience in key moments but remained proud of the squad’s effort.
However, the major highlight of his interaction came when he was asked about Dhoni’s future with Chennai Super Kings.
"You and I’ll get to know it next year," Gaikwad said while responding to the question regarding Dhoni’s availability for IPL 2027.
Gaikwad also stressed how much CSK missed MS Dhoni’s presence in crunch moments this season.
"He can come in those late overs and change the game just by staying in the crease. Never know about next season but really happy with the guys we have," he added.
The CSK skipper further said:
"We wanted to chase whatever the total is asap. When you're chasing 230, it's not easy against that bowling attack. Threw in a hail mary, credit to them. Wicket was spongy to start, they started well. Our bowling wasn't good in the power play."
"Tough season, after a hat-trick of losses. We found momentum, we found the right spots but were hit by injuries. Ghosh and Overton going out unsettled us, we were a batter or bowler short in the last three games."
Gaikwad also pointed out that the franchise is currently going through a transition period after the exits of experienced stars like Ajinkya Rahane and Ambati Rayudu.
Also Read: Anshul Kamboj registers unwanted IPL record after another flop show in GT vs CSK
CSK knocked out after crushing defeat against GT
The clash against Gujarat Titans was a must-win encounter for Chennai Super Kings’ playoff hopes, but the heavy defeat officially ended their IPL 2026 campaign as an “E” was placed beside their name on the points table.
After opting to bowl first, CSK endured a disastrous start with GT openers Shubman Gill and Sai Sudharsan dominating the innings.
The duo stitched together a massive 125-run partnership in just 12.2 overs before Gill departed after scoring 64 off 37 balls.
Sai Sudharsan continued the carnage with 84 off 53 deliveries, while Jos Buttler smashed 57 off just 27 balls to help GT post a huge total of 229 runs.
In reply, CSK’s chase completely collapsed after Mohammed Siraj destroyed the top order. Siraj removed Sanju Samson on the very first ball of the innings before dismissing Gaikwad and Urvil Patel shortly after.
CSK never recovered from the early blows and eventually suffered a massive defeat, ending their IPL 2026 season with six wins and eight losses in 14 matches.
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