IPL 2024: Ruturaj Gaikwad has got the hallmarks of MS Dhoni – CSK coach Eric Simons

Chennai Super Kings bowling coach Eric Simons feels Ruturaj Gaikwad has got the hallmarks of former skipper MS Dhoni. Gaikwad led CSK for the first time in IPL 2024 but the team failed to qualify for the playoffs after their 27-run loss against Royal Challengers Bengaluru at the M.Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru on Saturday. 

Chennai had to score 201 runs to stay ahead in the Net Run Rate but could only manage 191-7 and thus they were knocked out of the tournament. Rachin Ravindra scored 61 off 37 whereas Ravindra Jadeja scored 42 runs off 22 balls but CSK’s middle order could not deliver.

Under Gaikwad’s captaincy, CSK won seven and lost as many matches in the league stage. Meanwhile, Gaikwad has a calm head on his shoulders and did a decent job as a leader.

Gaikwad also led from the front, scoring 583 runs in 14 matches at an average of 53 and a strike rate of 141.16 but he was dismissed for a golden duck against RCB in the run-chase of 219.

Simons backed Gaikwad to become a tremendous captain in the upcoming future.

“I don’t think there’s too much that needs to be changed. Ruturaj is going to be a tremendous captain. He’s got a very good understanding of the game. He’s good a good feel for the game and he’s got a lot of the hallmarks of MS Dhoni,” Simons said in the post-match press conference.

“He’s understanding and be able to be simple about the game. The calmness that he brings whether it’s in a team meeting or conversation with bowlers or in the middle is incredible,” he added.

CSK will want to make a solid comeback in the next season.