Rituraj GaikwadCaptain of Chennai Super KingsAfter his side sustained a slow over rate during the IPL 2026 clash against Gujarat Titans at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, he has been fined Rs 24 lakh.It was CSK’s second offense of the season after an earlier violation in Match 18, as per Article 2.22 of the IPL Code of Conduct, which deals with minimum over-rate offences. As a result, Gaikwad was slapped with a hefty fine, while the rest of the playing XI, including the impact player, were fined either Rs 6 lakh or 25 per cent of their respective match fees, whichever was less.Rutoraj Gaikwad as captain and opening batsman of Chennai Super Kings (CSK) has made the IPL 2026 campaign very challenging and highly criticized. While he formally guided the franchise through a difficult “transition phase” that was plagued by early injuries, his personal batting form and lack of intent became a sticking point. CSK ultimately failed to qualify for the playoffs, finishing their league stage with 6 wins and 8 losses. A disappointing evening for CSK went far beyond the penalties as the Gujarat titans completely dominated the contest to seal a resounding 89-run win and officially knock Chennai out of the race for the IPL 2026 playoffs.After being asked to bat first, GT’s batting unit savaged CS’s bowling attack. Skipper Shubman Gill scored 64 off 37 balls, while Sai Sudharsan continued his sensational season with a brilliant 84 off 53 balls. Jos Buttler then added the finishing touch with an unbeaten 57 off just 23 balls as Gujarat piled up a massive 229/4.
What was the real reason behind CSK’s defeat in the match against Gujarat Titans?
CSK’s chase never recovered after the early strikes from Mohammad Siraj, who dismissed Sanju Samson for a duck and removed Gaikwad cheaply. Although Shivam Dubey played a blistering cameo of 47 off 17 balls, the rest of the batting line-up collapsed under the pressure.Rashid Khan and Kagiso Rabada wrapped up the innings as CSK were bundled out for just 140 in 13.4 overs. The emphatic win confirmed Gujarat Titans’ place in the top two while ending Chennai Super Kings’ hopes of reaching the IPL 2026 playoffs.
