Ruturaj Gaikwad Says CSK Are In Transition After Playoff Exit Against GT

Chennai Super Kings captain Ruturaj Gaikwad admitted the franchise is going through a transition phase after their crushing 89-run defeat to Gujarat Titans ended their IPL 2026 playoff hopes in Ahmedabad.

Gaikwad said several young and inexperienced players were exposed to high-pressure situations this season, which will benefit the team in the future. He highlighted that more than 8-10 players in the squad had played fewer than 20 IPL games. Despite the disappointing campaign, Gaikwad praised the team’s six away wins and the efforts of youngsters like Kartik Sharma, Urvil Patel, and Dewald Brevis.

He also admitted injuries disrupted CSK’s balance throughout the season and said the franchise will now focus on rebuilding for next year.