Ruturaj Gaikwad Breaks MS Dhoni’s Record As CSK Captain After 17 Years in First Time Feat

Captain Ruturaj Gaikwad and Shivam Dube made significant contributions to Chennai Super Kings’ total of 210 for four against Lucknow Super Giants. Gaikwad, who took over the captaincy from MS Dhoni this season, remained unbeaten on 108* and became the first CSK captain to score a century in the IPL. This also marked the highest score by a CSK captain in the tournament. Dube’s quickfire 66 added to the team’s imposing total, with the duo forming a crucial fourth-wicket stand.

Gaikwad’s innings was marked by elegant strokes and precise timing, showcasing his class as a batsman. Despite a rather subdued Power Play and middle phase, he managed to steer the innings towards a competitive total after the early departure of Ajinkya Rahane. Gaikwad’s partnership with Dube, who played aggressively, played a key role in building the team’s total. Gaikwad’s innings was noteworthy for his classic approach, focusing on finding gaps for boundaries rather than relying solely on power-hitting.

He struck his 17th IPL fifty off just 28 balls, maintaining a strike rate of above 180. His century was an impressive display of skill and temperament, with memorable shots including a slice-cut off pacer Mohsin Khan and a six off Yash Thakur to reach 99. Dube’s aggressive batting complemented Gaikwad’s classical approach, adding impetus to the innings with powerful hitting. With Gaikwad anchoring the innings, Dube’s onslaught of sixes provided vital momentum to CSK’s innings.

Their partnership of 100 runs came off just 46 balls, highlighting their effective collaboration. In summary, Gaikwad’s unbeaten century and Dube’s aggressive batting played pivotal roles in CSK’s formidable total, with the duo forming a strong partnership that propelled the team to a competitive position against Lucknow Super Giants.