Will CSK push Ruturaj Gaikwad to no 3? Fleming says, ‘We talk about everything’

Chennai does have the option of using Ayush Mhatre, who has given glimpses with a few innings already of that modern T20 DNA similar to his peer, Vaibhav Sooryavanshi. This has opened the chatter if Mhatre should open the batting and Gaikwad should be pushed down to three. “We talk about everything,” said head coach Stephen Fleming, if there are any discussions of change in batting roles. “We’re always looking at different ways. You got to back your captain to the hilt, and Ruturaj’s form will come good. But he’s (Gaikwad) too good a player not to contribute in this line-up,” he added.

Gaikwad has opened 65 times in his career for CSK, scoring 2352 runs at an average of 41.26. Batting at three, his numbers dip down as his average falls to 26 from eight games, scoring 208 runs. Interestingly, though his strike rate opening the batting has been 135.8 and it spikes to 151.82 at number three.

The performances of the side have not helped his batting form either. The side lost three games to start with before winning two back-to-back fixtures against Delhi Capitals and Kolkata Knight Riders. Gaikwad, after the win against KKR, acknowledged that the lack of form was playing in his mind. “Good to be on the winning side after a long time. Felt it was getting into my head even when batting. Feeling really good, just wanting to make sure to do what the team needs. Mentally, feeling positive,” Gaikwad said to the broadcasters. “A big knock is just around the corner. Definitely, I will do it when it is needed,” he assured.

Fleming, too, was happy with the way Gaikwad was performing in the nets and said there has been a lot of hard work going on in the background. “We’re working hard on several things. The team, the captaincy and the player. He’s going fine. He hasn’t had the returns that he would like, and he’s working hard on that. But that can be the nature of T20. He’s training well. He’s hitting the ball well. He has a positive mindset. He just hasn’t got away yet. But we’ve seen over the years that he’s a quality player.”

“If we can cover for him for a few games and he comes into form, then that’s the way an IPL can go. Very rarely does someone dominate the whole way through. But if we have players coming in and out of form and they dovetail, then that’s a good thing. But he’s working hard, and he’s got a lot of support around him,” Fleming added.

Tanishq Vaddi is a Sports Writer with the online team of The Indian Express, based in Hyderabad. He primarily covers cricket and is known for his in-depth analysis and technical reporting on the game. Professional Background Role: He covers a wide range of cricketing action, including international matches (Tests, T20Is), domestic tournaments (Challenger Trophy), and major cricket leagues (IPL, WPL). Education: Tanishq holds a Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering from MVSR Engineering College and a PG Diploma in English Journalism (Print) from the Asian School of Journalism. Experience: Before joining The Indian Express in late 2022, he gained experience covering the startup ecosystem at YourStory and worked as a copywriter at Story Digital. Key Areas of Coverage Tanishq’s writing often focuses on the technical and psychological aspects of cricket. His notable work includes: Technical Analysis: Explaining bowling actions (e.g., Simon Harmer’s bounce) and batting techniques (e.g., Ben Duckett’s sweep shot). Interviews: He has interviewed prominent figures such as former England player Nick Knight, bowling coach Rajib Datta, and mental health coach Paddy Upton. Statistical Comparisons: Detailed career analysis, such as comparing Shubman Gill’s early career stats with legends like Sachin Tendulkar and Virat Kohli. Regional Cricket: Reporting on developments in South Indian cricket, including the appointment of Gary Stead as the head coach for Andhra. Notable Recent Articles "IND vs SA 2nd Test: How did Simon Harmer beat Yashasvi Jaiswal with bounce?" (Nov 2025) "2026 Under-19 World Cup: Bowling coach outlines India's preparation" (Nov 2025) "Nick Knight interview: Joe Root will score big runs in Australia" (Nov 2025) "Gary Stead appointed as head coach for Andhra for the 25/26 season" (Sept 2025) "Jason Gillespie explains what makes Jasprit Bumrah and Pat Cummins so special, and why reverse swing will be key with Kookaburra ball" You can follow his latest reports on the Indian Express website or via his Twitter handle @TanishqVaddi. ... Read More

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