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Ruturaj Gaikwad has been in sensational form in the List A matches. He scored 274 runs in 5 innings at an average of 54.80 for India-A in the Sri Lanka-A Team Tri-Series (OD) 2026. He finished as the top run-scorer of the tournament and showcased his amazing talent for the India A National Cricket Team while batting at No.4.
Ruturaj Gaikwad played a pivotal role in India A’s title-winning campaign that helped them secure a victory over Sri Lanka-A in the final by 66 runs. However, despite amazing performances in the List A games for the Men in Blue side, he was not selected in the ODI squad announced for the three-match England ODI game starting from July away from home.
Ruturaj Gaikwad opens up on his relationship with MS Dhoni
Recently, Ruturaj Gaikwad provided an exclusive interview with Sportstar, where he spoke about his relationship with MS Dhoni, Chennai Super Kings (CSK), and the fans as well. He also spoke about dealing with injuries, handling the pressures of captaincy, and the leadership lessons he has picked up from Dhoni in CSK.
After being asked about his learnings from MS Dhoni, he stated that the former India captain has advised him not to complicate things much, to keep things simple, not to overthink, and keep things flowing in their own way.
“One thing I have learnt from him is trying to keep things very simple and not complicate a lot. Sometimes, as a responsible player in the team, you tend to overthink decisions. You think about all the ifs and buts. With him, I feel he keeps things really simple. He lets things flow as it is and then arrives at a conclusion.”
He has carried throughout the years- Ruturaj Gaikwad on Dhoni’s legacy and captaincy
“That simplicity is something he has carried throughout the years. There are also a lot of results that have backed that process. For me, it is about balancing that with my own thought process and trying to understand how I can help the team win.”
“Results are something which is definitely needed in any team, so you try and get into that thought process in terms of how you can help the team. It’s about implementing the plans.”
Ruturaj Gaikwad seeks the fans to keep their heads high on difficult time
Apart from that, Ruturaj Gaikwad has provided a message to the CSK fans after a few disappointing seasons, during which they have failed to qualify for the playoffs. He has asked the fans to believe in the team and keep supporting them and believes that they will once again be back at their very best.
“Just be patient, we have seen some of the best days over the last 14 or 15 years. We still believe we are one of the best franchises in the IPL. There will be ups & downs. Supporting every player who represents CSK is important. Every player who plays for CSK feels something special about representing the franchise.”
“Everyone wants to do a little more for the team. Sometimes things don’t work out the way we want them to but all the players are working hard to get the team where the fans want to see it. Hopefully, we will get there.”