'The success we've had, things we have been doing, don't want to change single bit of it' - Ruturaj Gaikwad on keeping CSK's tradition intact

In a league known for its dramatic twists and turns, the Indian Premier League (IPL) has witnessed yet another captivating story unfold. This time, it revolves around the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and their newly appointed skipper, Ruturaj Gaikwad.

Gaikwad's ascent to the captaincy throne wasn't just a random turn of events. It was a culmination of a journey intertwined with mentorship from none other than the iconic former CSK captain, MS Dhoni. Gaikwad revealed that Dhoni had hinted him about the leadership mantle back in 2022, setting the stage for his eventual elevation.

"I don't want to be a specific kind of character. Just like to flow things as they're flowing. Keep the culture of the CSK basically going. That's what I feel. The success we've had, the things we have been doing, I don't want to change a single bit of it. I just want to come there, take my own decisions and just give as much freedom as possible because that's what has been happening from when I joined CSK. Nothing really changes and I'm enjoying myself," Ruturaj said as quoted by ESPN Cricinfo.

His words reflect a profound commitment to preserving the essence of CSK, a team steeped in a rich legacy cultivated by stalwarts like Dhoni himself. Gaikwad's approach to leadership is refreshingly uncomplicated – maintain the winning formula while staying true to oneself.

There are certain things that the outside people don't really get to know: Gaikwad

But Gaikwad's journey wasn't devoid of challenges. From being benched in his initial IPL season to gradually blossoming into a cornerstone of the CSK batting lineup, his resilience, and the team's unwavering support have been instrumental. Reflecting on his role as both captain and batter, Gaikwad offered insights into the complexities of his dual responsibilities.

"There are certain things where the outside people don't really get to know. Last year, [the] three, four games that we started, it was in Ahmedabad, Chennai and Mumbai and again Chennai. All those games were on flat wickets. So I feel the pitch really matters a lot. First game [this season] I thought I'd got a good start, got a good ball [out for 15]. Second game, same I think, I'd got a good start but had to accelerate a little bit, you tend to make a mistake there [out for 46]. And the third game, again I felt I was in great shape, the second ball does not really do anything [out for 1].

"Sometimes there are phases where you get good balls. Sometimes there are phases where you are slightly unlucky. Sometimes there are phases where things don't really fall in shape. [A] good shot, going into fielder's hands. So you don't really need to think about that. I always felt I was in good shape, starting really well, good headspace, so I wasn't really worried. And captaincy, while batting, is a totally different approach. Even when I was playing my first game, or the first fifty I scored for CSK, I think [it was a] similar kind of situation, we were chasing 140 and I always wanted to stay till the end and make sure I finished the innings so pretty much same. Nothing really changes even though I am captain or not," he added.

Also Read: IPL 2024: Top 10 Memes from CSK vs KKR, Match 22

Yet, amidst the tactical maneuvers and strategic calculations, Gaikwad remains grounded, cherishing moments shared with his teammates, especially the legendary Dhoni.

As CSK continue their quest for another IPL glory under Gaikwad's stewardship, one thing remains certain – the spirit of the yellow brigade, nurtured by the likes of Dhoni.