Rituraj Gaikwad After mentoring, overall team performance was considered. Chennai Super Kings Won by eight wickets. Mumbai Indiansa result that keeps their playoff hopes alive. Named player of the match for his unbeaten 67, Gaikwad highlighted how CSK managed to regain control after a brief spell of pressure. “Feels good. We started really well, first couple of overs, then they got the momentum and we pulled it back,” he said, pointing to the bowlers’ ability to respond under pressure. MI scored 57 for 1 in the powerplay, but led by CSK’s attack Noor Ahmed (2/26) and Anshul Kamboj (3/32) tightened the screws in the middle overs. Gaekwad was particularly pleased with Kamboj’s style, saying, “He’s someone who keeps it really simple, sticks to the process and his mind is thinking like a batsman.” He also noted Noor’s improvement, adding that the spinner “has made some adjustments and is coming along really well.” Chasing 160, CSK lost. Sanju Samson The skin Jaspreet BumrahBut Gaikwad stressed the importance of one of the three over batting depth. “It was about getting through the first two overs and then it was about one of the top three staying there,” he explained. He anchored the innings with Karthik Sharma, who impressed with an unbeaten 54. Praising the youngster, Gaikwad said, “A good confidence booster for him and for us too. Yes, he is a sixer but he has another game too, but he picks and chooses specific balls.” Gaekwad also shed light on the team selection decisions, explaining the balance with CSK opting for all-round options. “We thought about how to get the balance right, how to get a batsman at eight and an extra bowler. Veer and Ghosh are the ones who can contribute to both.” Contemplating his own form, he remained composed. “As I always say, I was feeling fine, feeling confident, but this is T20 cricket. I’m in a good frame of mind and it’s just a matter of time.” With the win, CSK remained firmly in the playoff race, and Gaikwad emphasized the team’s simple approach going forward: “Mistakes are going to happen but we have to make sure we come back strong, give everything for the jersey and the fans.”
