Ruturaj Gaikwad’s Captaincy Under Scanner but Shane Watson Urges Patience Amid CSK’s Tough IPL 2025 Start

By Swapneel Deshpande 08 Apr 2025, 15:38 IST

Ruturaj Gaikwad’s Captaincy Under Scanner but Shane Watson Urges Patience

As Chennai Super Kings grapple with a shaky start to their IPL 2025 campaign—losing three of their first four matches—questions have begun to mount regarding the leadership of new skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad. However, former CSK all-rounder Shane Watson has come to the young captain’s defence, urging fans and pundits alike to show patience and allow Gaikwad time to grow into the leadership role.

Watson’s Take: A Learning Curve for Ruturaj

Speaking in an exclusive interview during a JioStar promotional event, Shane Watson highlighted that Ruturaj Gaikwad, still relatively new to the pressures of captaincy, is in a unique environment that allows him to thrive—thanks to the mentorship of Stephen Fleming and MS Dhoni.

“He’s still relatively young in that role, and he would’ve learned a hell of a lot from last season,” Watson remarked. “He’s got two of the best leaders world cricket has seen in the last 30 years helping and guiding him—Fleming and Dhoni.”

Watson elaborated that while the presence of such seasoned mentors is invaluable, true leadership only evolves through real-time decision-making on the field.

Under Fire: Ruturaj’s On-Field Decisions

Despite a promising first season in 2024, Gaikwad’s second year as CSK captain has seen a rise in scrutiny. Observers have pointed to several tactical missteps, particularly in managing CSK’s renowned spin attack. On multiple occasions this season, Gaikwad has failed to effectively utilise all 20 overs from his trio of elite spinners, despite conditions favouring turn at Chepauk.

There have also been concerns about his bowling changes and field placements, often viewed as overly cautious or miscalculated.

Watson Defends Tactical Choices

Shane Watson, however, was quick to deflect blame from Gaikwad, noting that T20 captaincy is a collaborative effort.

“Those decisions aren’t made in isolation,” he stressed. “There are two strategic timeouts, plenty of data and inputs from the leadership group. Yes, Ruturaj makes the final call, but it’s a collective process.”

Watson added that the criticism directed solely at Gaikwad overlooks the behind-the-scenes decision-making process involving coaches, analysts, and senior players.

Ruturaj’s Path Forward: Growth Through Experience

Watson remains optimistic about Gaikwad’s future, believing that experience will only sharpen his leadership instincts.

“From what I’ve seen, he’s just getting better and better. He’s continuing to learn, and that’s the kind of person Ruturaj is. The more he plays, the more he’ll grow,” Watson concluded.

What Lies Ahead for CSK

Chennai Super Kings will need to regroup quickly if they are to bounce back from their early setbacks. With seasoned performers like Ravindra Jadeja, Moeen Ali, and Deepak Chahar around, Gaikwad has no shortage of support within the squad. However, fans and the CSK think tank alike will hope that the young captain can swiftly transform his potential into consistent match-winning strategies.

The Super Kings’ next match, scheduled later this week, will be another critical test for both Ruturaj’s leadership and CSK’s chances of staying in the playoff hunt.