Ruturaj Gaikwad with MS Dhoni in IPL 2024© BCCI/Sportzpics
It can be difficult for a young player to lead a team that has veterans like MS Dhoni, Ravindra Jadeja and Ajinkya Rahane. Still, Ruturaj Gaikad impressed many with his leadership qualities as he led the Chennai Super Kings team in Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024. It was just before the start of the tournament that CSK announced a captaincy change, with Dhoni passing the baton to Gaikwad. When the CSK captain was asked about the difficulty of leading such players, he gave an honest answer.
“I felt good from the start (of the tournament). I am very accessible to all teammates whenever needed and they always support the team in whatever way the team requires,” Gaikwad said of the captaincy challenge, to India Times.
“I wouldn’t say it’s difficult as they are all very understanding. It’s great to get along with all the senior players who are part of the team. Their experience always helps in game situations,” he added.
Gaikwad also demonstrated calm and composure on the field similar to what people have seen from MS Dhoni for years. The CSK captain revealed that ‘being neutral’ is something he learned from Dhoni, and now he is neither too excited about wins nor too disheartened by defeats.
“Being neutral is something I learned from Mahi bhai. Not getting too excited about anything or getting discouraged about anything is the right approach I have learned,” said Ruturaj. “When batting, regardless of whether I am captain or not, my approach is always the same. ”, explained the CSK captain.
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