Reports: CSK’s Ruturaj Gaikwad tests negative for COVID-19; set for another round of testing

Ruturaj Gaikwad, the Chennai Super Kings’ batsman, has tested negative for the ungodly COVID-19 virus after testing positive twice. Ever since CSK landed in Dubai after their five-day training camp at the MA Chidambaram Stadium, also known as the Chepauk, Gaikwad has had a rough time. He fell prey to the virus when 13 members of CSK’s contingent tested positive.

Among the cricketers, fast bowler Deepak Chahar, who caught the virus, has recovered as well. Due to the chaos, the Super Kings’ quarantine period was also increased and they were the last team to start practising for the T20 event, starting Saturday, September 19 in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Even as others have recovered, Gaikwad’s troubles haven’t ended yet.

Ruturaj Gaikwad might return after two matches

As per reports in Sportstar, after testing negative once, he will have to undergo another round of testing in the next 24 hours. He will only be allowed to leave his room if he returns a negative test. The 23-year-old is expected to be available for selection after two matches. He remains to be the only player, who hasn’t joined the Yellow Army for their training camp.

Gaikwad was thought to be a replacement for Suresh Raina, who backed out from the cash-rich league, citing ‘personal reasons’. Raina, leaving meant that a massive void has been created at the number three slot, since the southpaw in the second-highest run-scorer in the history of the league. Gaikwad was said to be one of the contenders to bat at three.

As per the protocols set by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), Gaikwad will also need to pass the fitness test to make his return. If reports are to be believed, the procedure will take around two to three days. The youngster has quite a bit of experience, playing as an opener for India A as well as for Maharashtra in the domestic circuit.

The Super Kings will be kicking off their campaign against the Mumbai Indians (MI), captained by Rohit Sharma, at the Sheikh Zayed Stadium in Abu Dhabi. Apart from Raina, CSK won’t be having Harbhajan Singh’s services as well. The veteran spinner also moved away owing to ‘personal reasons’.