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IPL 2025: Ruturaj Gaikwad Takes Cheeky Dig At CSK Openers After RR Loss
Follow UsThe opening partnership has been a concern for CSK in the tournament so far
Chennai Super Kings (CSK) skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad took a cheeky dig at his team's openers, Rahul Tripathi and Rachin Ravindra, after the Men in Yellow succumbed to their second loss of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 against Rajasthan Royals (RR) in Guwahati on March 30 (Sunday).
In the three matches so far, Gaikwad has come into bat in the second over on two occasions and in the first over of the innings once. When asked about the logic behind his batting at three, Gaikwad said it does not matter as he is coming in early anyway.
"Over the years, Ajinkya [Rahane] batted at 3, and [Ambati] Rayudu was taking care of middle-overs. We thought it would be better if I came a bit late to take care of the middle overs, and Tripathi can bat aggressively at the top. Anyway, it doesn't matter because I am getting to bat early in the three games [smiles]," Gaikwad said at the post-match presentation.
"It was decided during the auction time, and I don't have any problem with that. I can take risks when needed and rotate strike. Unfortunately, we have not been getting good starts, but once we get that, things will be different."
RR skipper Riyan Parag expressed relief after winning his first game of the tournament after two losses. "Feels good. Took some time, it was two games but felt long. Felt we were 20 short. We were going well in the middle overs but lost a couple of quick wickets. But we bowled very well. The bowlers stepped up and executed our collective plans," Parag said.
Player of the Match Nitish Rana, who scored a brilliant 81 off 36, did not find much success batting at No. 4 in the previous two matches. However, after discussions with his coaches, he moved to three, and it paid off.
"It was a tactical move today from the coaches. It was suggested by them. I am okay to bat at any position. We had a conversation in the dressing room between Rahul Dravid and Vikram Rathour, and it was decided that I will bat at three today," Rana said.
Having got off the mark in IPL 2025, RR will hope to add to their tally with a win over Punjab Kings (PBKS) in their next game in Mullanpur on April 5 (Saturday). CSK, who have lost two in a row now, will hope to get back to winning ways as they take on Delhi Capitals (DC), also on April 5.
