R Ashwin wants Ruturaj Gaikwad to change his batting approach, says '...you need to show intent constantly'

Ravichandran Ashwin believes that Chennai Super Kings' recent surge in momentum will provide some much-needed breathing room for their captain Ruturaj Gaikwad in the ongoing IPL 2026. After a rocky start to the season, these consecutive victories are expected to alleviate the mounting pressure on Gaikwad's leadership. However, Ashwin also noted that the skipper needs to find his personal rhythm at the crease, specifically urging the out-of-form opener to refine his tactical approach during the early stages of his innings.

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You need to show intent constantly in T20 game: R Ashwin on Ruturaj Gaikwad

The turnaround marks a significant shift in fortunes for the five-time champions. CSK began their title defense on a concerning note, suffering three straight losses that raised questions about the team's transition. They have since course-corrected effectively, securing vital wins over the Delhi Capitals and Kolkata Knight Riders to get their campaign back on track.

"The fact that he's got a couple of wins as a captain should really ease him into this tournament. Honestly, if I was sitting in the dugout or if I were Ruturaj Gaikwad, I wouldn't be too fussed. T20 is a game where you need to show intent constantly," Ashwin said on JioStar.

Ruturaj has been going across the line a bit more: R Ashwin

Despite the team's recent success, Ruturaj Gaikwad is facing a significant personal slump at the top of the order. Through five matches, the skipper has managed a total of only 63 runs, with a modest season-high of 28. This lack of production has sparked internal debates regarding the lineup, with growing speculation that the explosive young talent Ayush Mhatre could be promoted to open alongside Sanju Samson, a move that would see Gaikwad shift down to the No. 3 position.

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To help the opener rediscover his form, R Ashwin offered a specific technical recommendation. He suggested that Gaikwad focus on playing more down the ground during the initial phase of his innings. By prioritising straighter bat paths and traditional shots early on, Ashwin believes the captain can better find his timing and navigate the early pressure from bowlers before expanding his stroke play.

"There's just one small thing I would ask for. If you look at Ayush Mhatre or Sanju Samson, they took the right options by going down the ground. Whereas Ruturaj has been going across the line a bit more and getting caught early. It would serve him well if he took it slightly easier at the start of his innings, looked to time the ball, and played more down the ground," Ashwin added.