"It was tough against medium pacers...": CSK skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad after loss to Rajasthan Royals
Guwahati, March 30
Chennai Super Kings captain Ruturaj Gaikwad credited Rajasthan Royals' bowling lineup after they laid the foundation for what was eventually an easy eight-wicket win for the Riyan Parag-led Rajasthan Royals in both teams' first match of the Indian Premier League 2026, on Monday.
RR's bowling lineup, led by Jofra Archer (2/19 in 4 overs), Nandre Burger (2/26 in 4 overs), Ravindra Jadeja (2/18 in 3 overs), along with contributions from Brijesh Sharma, Sandeep Sharma and Ravi Bishnoi, bundled CSK out for just 127 in 19.4 overs.
RR, on the other hand, took only 12.1 overs to chase the target with the help of Vaibhav Suryavanshi's 17-ball 52 knock.
Speaking at the post-match presentation, Gaikwad said the conditions were challenging at the start, particularly against Jofra Archer and the medium pacers, with CSK spinners also getting help.
"Felt the conditions at the start were tough, especially against Jofra. It was tough against medium pacers, spinners were getting assistance as well," he said.
Gaikwad acknowledged a nervy start for the young team but emphasised moving on and preparing for the next game in three days.
"Maybe we could've batted deeper but you never know a good score these days so had to keep going. You just put it behind and move on. Next game in three days. Lots of youngsters in the group, nervy start but good to get a game behind," he added.
Coming to the match, Rajasthan Royals defeated Chennai Super Kings by eight wickets in the IPL 2026 season opener at Guwahati. RR's bowlers bundled them out for 127 in 19.4 overs.
In reply, Vaibhav Suryavanshi starred with a 17-ball 52, the second-fastest fifty for RR, and shared a 75-run opening stand with Yashasvi Jaiswal (38*).
— ANI
Reader Comments
Honestly, 127 is just not enough on any IPL pitch. The batting lineup collapsed. Yes, RR bowled well, but CSK's shot selection was poor. Need to bounce back strong in the next one. #WhistlePodu
Vaibhav Suryavanshi! What a talent! 52 off 17 balls is insane. Future of Indian cricket is in good hands. RR's scouting is top-class. CSK will learn from this, they always do.
Respectful criticism: Ruturaj's captaincy seemed a bit reactive. The batting order could have been shuffled when the medium pacers were causing trouble. But it's a long tournament, plenty of time to adjust.
Archer and Burger were unplayable! Credit where it's due. CSK missing that experienced core in the middle. Hope Dhoni is mentoring them well from behind the scenes. The chase was a proper domination, yaar.
It's just one match, don't write off CSK! The Guwahati pitch had something for everyone. RR capitalized better. Excited to see more of this young Indian talent like Suryavanshi and Jaiswal playing together. 🇮🇳
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