Chennai Super Kings (CSK) captain Ruturaj Gaikwad attributed their seven-wicket defeat against Punjab Kings (PBKS) to a combination of factors, including a challenging pitch, evening dew, and a lack of bowling depth.
CSK batting struggles on tricky Chepauk Pitch
Asked about the modest total of 162, Ruturaj Gaikwad acknowledged, “Probably 50-60 runs short.” He explained the pitch offered little assistance to batsmen initially, although it improved later. However, the dew factor and the inability to utilize the Impact Player effectively for batting further restricted CSK’s scoring.
CSK bowling woes exacerbated by injuries
CSK’s bowling attack, already missing key pacers Tushar Deshpande (illness) and Matheesha Pathirana (niggle), was further hampered by Deepak Chahar‘s injury during the first over of the second innings. This left them with limited options to take wickets, especially as the spinners became ineffective due to the dew.
Impact Player Rule Backfires on CSK
Gaikwad expressed his frustration with the lack of bowling depth, particularly during crucial phases of the game. He highlighted the limitations of having only two reliable wicket-taking options, especially with the spinners being neutralized by the dew.
“It’s a real problem,” Gaikwad conceded. “There are phases where you want to really get a wicket and suddenly you have only two bowlers who can get a wicket. Plus, our spinners are really out of the game given the dew. So, definitely a tough day but things like this happen and still four games to go. I really hope that we will turn it around.”
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With four matches remaining, CSK will be desperate to find solutions. They face a tough away trip against PBKS again and need to address their bowling concerns if they are to reach the playoffs. Gaikwad remains optimistic, expressing hope that CSK can turn things around in the remaining matches.
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