IPL 2026: ‘This is a massive test for Ruturaj Gaikwad’ - Zaheer Khan on CSK’s transitional phase without MS Dhoni
CSK have lost their first two games in IPL 2026.
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Former Indian cricketer Zaheer Khan observed that Chennai Super Kings head coach Stephen Fleming appeared visibly stressed in the dugout during their recent home loss against the Punjab Kings in the Indian Premier League 2026. CSK currently sit at the bottom of the points table with two losses in the 19th edition of the tournament.
Zaheer noted that a transitional phase can be challenging and stressful, adding that inconsistency is often inevitable during such periods. Fleming has come under scrutiny following CSK’s recent performances, especially after the team’s disappointing tenth-place finish in the 2025 season. Expectations were high this year, but the franchise made some bold and unconventional choices during the mini-auction, which are now being closely evaluated.
"This is going to be a massive test for Ruturaj Gaikwad this season. He is leading a franchise that has achieved so much. MS Dhoni not being there is also a huge factor. We can see this team heading into a new direction. So, there will be a bit of up-and-down. To replicate what MS Dhoni brings, when he is not on the field, that will always be tough to replicate. Even if you look at their last match, even the coach was looking really worried, because somewhere along the line, he knows that this is a transitional phase. So, he is trying hard to find a way to find the spark," Zaheer said on Cricbuzz.
Ashwin makes bold call ahead of RCB vs CSK match
Sanju Samson completed a high-profile move from the Rajasthan Royals to CSK, with many calling it one of the most significant trades in the tournament’s history. The buzz around the transfer only grew after the wicketkeeper-batter’s impressive performances for India in the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026. However, Samson has had a slow start to life with the five-time champions, managing just 13 runs in his first two innings.
"There were a lot of expectations from Sanju Samson after his three knocks in the World Cup. The expectation was that once he dons the yellow jersey, it will continue, and he will shine like gold. But even he is trying to find his form. If he gets into form, Shivam Dube steps up to the expectation, Ayush Mhatre continues his run, then you can see a different CSK. The journey has been difficult so far, but how will they respond? That we will get to see against RCB," Zaheer said.
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