Chennai Super Kings have found themselves in deep trouble in the ongoing IPL 2026 match against Gujarat Titans on Sunday (April 26).
Gujarat Titans won
the toss and elected to bowl first on a slow, tricky Chepauk pitch. CSK's innings got off to a shaky start, losing early wickets including a golden duck for Sarfaraz Khan and a quick dismissal of Dewald Brevis (2 off 9), slumping to 37/4 in 8.2 overs. Kagiso Rabada was effective with the new ball.
Captain Ruturaj Gaikwad (42* off 44 balls, with 2 fours and 3 sixes) struggled initially with a slow strike rate but accelerated in the 12th over, smashing three sixes off Arshad Khan to push the score past 50. Shivam Dube (10* off 9, 2 fours) provided support in a 35-run unbeaten partnership.
At 13.3 overs, CSK reached 73/4 and are struggling to score runs. The surface favors spinners later, making a competitive total (around 150-170) crucial for CSK. GT's bowling attack looks dominant so far in this low-scoring affair.
Due to wickets falling early, Gaikwad had to change his approach and build his innings as he looks to convert starts to a big score. But despite doing decently, the CSK captain has faced the wrath of fans on social media, who trolled him for 'slow' batting.
🚨 Ruturaj Gaikwad today
8 of first 2 balls
12 of next 34 balls
Feels like watching a test match today worst Sunday afternoon ever ❌ pic.twitter.com/toFapzxjPH- K' (@Im_Kushall) April 26, 2026
Fans have compared Ruturaj Gaikwad with Pakistan's Babar Azam, who is known for his strike rate issues!
I haven't seen more selfish player than Ruturaj Gaikwad, firstly he didn't sacrifice his batting position for Urvil or Mhatre & secondly he plays himself rather team. 20(36)*, I mean for real?
- Rajiv (@Rajiv1841) April 26, 2026
I haven't seen such a shitty selfish knock in years. Babar Azam level knock so far!
Is Ruturaj Gaikwad trying to draw the match on 5th day of test match? Strike rate of 62 is not acceptable under no circumstances.
He has become such a bad T20 player.- Rajiv (@Rajiv1841) April 26, 2026
The CSK fans have trolled Ruturaj Gaikwad for his knock.
Ruturaj Gaikwad trying his best to planting more trees outside Chepauk stadium. what a guy he is
- Pikachu (@11eleven_4us) April 26, 2026
Prime Ruturaj Gaikwad is slower than finished Rahul Dravid
- Shah (@Shahhoon1) April 26, 2026
