Cricholic
CSK vice-captain Ruturaj Gaikwad has remained silent about his opening partner for IPL 2025. CSK values stability at the top, a key factor in their 2018 and 2021 title wins. Gaikwad’s successful partnership with Devon Conway in 2023 helped CSK secure the title, accumulating 849 runs at an average of 56.60 while scoring nine runs per over.
Ruturaj Gaikwad’s Opening Partnerships Over the Seasons
Last season, Rachin Ravindra replaced an injured Conway. He slightly improved the scoring rate (9.04 per over) but had a modest average of 26.71. CSK struggled in the Powerplay, managing only 8.72 runs per over—lower than SRH (11.17) and KKR (11.07). Earlier, Abhishek Sharma and Travis Head gave their team a fiery 94-run Powerplay, prompting CSK to rethink their approach.
Ruturaj Gaikwad’s Impactful Start
CSK’s decision to open with Ravindra and Rahul Tripathi instead of Gaikwad showcased their intent to maximize Powerplay impact. Head coach Michael Hussey confirmed that Tripathi’s aggressive approach influenced the choice. Ravindra, a strong ODI batter, is still adapting to T20 cricket. He initially struggled on Chepauk’s slow pitch but gained momentum as the innings progressed, supported by Gaikwad’s explosive batting.
Ruturaj Gaikwad’s Powerplay Performance Breakdown
Since the introduction of the Impact Player rule, Gaikwad has had a first ten-ball strike rate of 123.66. This ranks him 24th among 34 top-order batters with at least ten innings. Conway (127.14) ranks slightly higher, while Ravindra (146.25) and Tripathi (145.20) are among the top ten. In the season opener, Gaikwad raced to 22 off his first 10 balls and 48 in his first 20—his best IPL start. He then recorded his fastest IPL fifty in just 22 balls, attacking 72.7% of deliveries faced.
Ruturaj Gaikwad’s Strategy for IPL 2025
Gaikwad’s aggressive start ensured CSK dominated the Powerplay, giving Ravindra time to settle. This helped CSK manage the middle overs efficiently despite spin challenges, with Ravindra staying unbeaten to seal the win. If Chepauk continues to favor slow pitches, teams that capitalize on Powerplay runs could gain a crucial advantage this season.
