Former Indian Test opener Aakash Chopra has picked Ruturaj Gaikwad’s performances as the improvement area for Chennai Super Kings in the next season of the IPL. CSK captain could not lead from the front, managing 337 runs in 14 matches at an average of 28.08 and a below-par strike rate of 123.44.
CSK ended the IPL 2026 season in eighth place after six wins and eight losses and thus needs to come up with an improved performance in the next season.
“They can definitely do better. Why can’t they do better? However, what all will they have to correct? One is that Ruturaj Gaikwad will have to think about intent, as to what he wants to do. He cannot have a season like this. It’s a fact that runs won’t be scored at times, but it cannot be an intentless season. They will have to change that one thing,” Aakash Chopra said on his YouTube Channel.
The renowned commentator added that CSK needs to strengthen their middle order and they can potentially target Hardik Pandya in the mini auction if he is released by MI.
“The middle order will have to be strengthened a little. You might bring in Hardik Pandya for that. They could focus on an Indian option in spin because, suddenly, it gives you more options,” he observed.
Chopra also questioned the Chennai Super Kings for acquiring the services of Matthew Short in the mini auction.
“I felt the biggest flaw in this team was that you picked only two overseas batters, and they were not like-for-like. Dewald Brevis plays down the order, and Matthew Short plays up the order. You don’t have a place in the opening position at all. Is there a place in the top three after Sanju Samson, Ruturaj Gaikwad, and Ayush Mhatre? Then why Matthew Short? They don’t have a reason,” he said.
The former Delhi cricketer said CSK can release Zak Foulkes, whereas Daryl Mitchell can return as a middle-order batter.
“They also kept Zak Foulkes in their team, and they didn’t play him a single match. So cut a little flab, and pick a middle-order batter, whether it’s Indian or overseas. Daryl Mitchell has been with this team earlier. He might be seen again,” Chopra noted.
CSK would aim to come up with an improved performance in the next season.
