IPL 2021: Ruturaj Gaikwad determined to take CSK to glory in UAE

The second leg of Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 is just a month away and all teams must be busy finalizing their strategies. The remaining matches of the competition will take place in UAE and it would be interesting to see how it unfolds. MS Dhoni-led Chennai Super Kings (CSK) are certainly one of the teams to watch out for as the three-time champions were on a roll earlier this year.

With five wins in seven games, CSK were second in the team standings at the time of the season suspension. Young opener Ruturaj Gaikwad was also instrumental in his side’s stellar run. He constantly gave CSK brilliant starts with his blitzes at the top. In seven matches, he scored 196 runs which also include two half-centuries. With the season resumption being around the corner, Gaikwad is raring to make a mark.

“It has been three years since we won the IPL title and I am focused on helping CSK reclaim it. The team has shown faith in my abilities and I must give my 110% to contribute towards the team’s success,” said the 24-year-old top-order batsman.

I and Faf du Plessis understand each other: Ruturaj Gaikwad

On being asked about his opening partner, Gaikwad highlighted communication is the key between the duo. “Communication and trust are foundations of partnership with Faf. we understand each other’s game well and we always discuss it all in the middle – whether any of us are struggling, how the conditions are playing out, the target, etc – and we trust each other’s assessment,” Gaikwad said about the former Proteas skipper.

Last month, the star opener made his international debut during the T20I series against Sri Lanka. With scores of 21 and 14, Gaikwad made a mixed start to his career. Speaking of his career with the Indian team, the youngster said he was enthralled with the experience.

“I will forever remember it. It ended in two days and we did not win (referring to playing on consecutive days), I lived every moment of it. A dream come true. It struck me that I want to go out there, again and again, keep performing for the team,” he said.