Ruturaj Gaikwad impresses with wicketkeeping skills at MPL 2024

Ruturaj Gaikwad is witnessing a fascinating turn of events as the newly appointed captain of the Chennai Super Kings (CSK), displayed his wicket-keeping skills during the ongoing Maharashtra Premier League (MPL). After Gaikwad donned the gloves many fans and experts alike were in awe of the young cricketer's ability.

After taking over the captaincy duties from the legendary MS Dhoni at CSK ahead of IPL 2024, the 27-year-old has now found a new, being behind the stumps. During a recent MPL match for Puneri Bappa, the opener surprised everyone by stepping behind the stumps.

Gaikwad's wicketkeeping debut was nothing short of impressive. On the very first ball of the innings, he showed his agility and reflexes by diving to his right to stop a wide delivery from racing away to the boundary. The video of his acrobatic effort quickly went viral, sparking discussions about his potential to replace the legendary Dhoni as CSK's wicketkeeper in the future.

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Ruturaj Gaikwad ended as second highest run-scorer in IPL 2024

However, Gaikwad's primary focus remains on his batting. In the ongoing MPL season, he has been the leading run-scorer for Puneri Bappa, smashing 290 runs at an impressive average of 48.33 and a strike rate of 168.60, including two half-centuries.

 In IPL 2024, in Gaikwad's debut season as skipper, the five-time champions couldn't qualify for the playoffs. But with the bat, the right-hander was impressive, smashing 583 runs in 14 games at an average of 53.00, and ended as the second-highest run-scorer. 

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While Dhoni gave away the CSK captaincy ahead of the IPL 2024 season, his wicket-keeping abilities remain unique. The veteran's lightning-quick reflexes and game-reading skills behind the stumps continue to be a sight to watch. Nevertheless, Gaikwad's unexpected wicket-keeping stint has opened up possible interests for the future.