Chennai Super Kings (CSK) captain Ruturaj Gaikwad is under the scanner yet again after another underwhelming performance with the bat. In CSK’s latest clash against Punjab Kings (PBKS) in the 22nd match of IPL 2025, the opener managed to score just 1 run in a daunting 220-run chase — triggering frustration and a wave of criticism across social media.
PBKS Set The Tone With 219 On The Board
Punjab Kings took control of the match early on, riding on the back of a dominant batting display. Though Khaleel Ahmed rocked the top order, young opener Priyansh Arya stole the show with a scintillating century — his second of the season. His stroke-filled innings provided the momentum PBKS needed, and Shashank Singh’s late onslaught added a finishing touch with a fiery half-century that propelled them to 219/6 in 20 overs.
Ruturaj’s Early Exit Adds To CSK’s Woes
CSK needed a strong start, and openers Rachin Ravindra and Devon Conway provided just that with a brisk 61-run partnership. However, once Ravindra fell to Glenn Maxwell, all eyes turned to captain Gaikwad to anchor the innings.
Unfortunately, he failed to deliver. Facing his second ball from Lockie Ferguson, Gaikwad attempted a back-foot punch to a sharply rising delivery — only to miscue it straight to Shashank Singh at mid-wicket. His dismissal for 1 (2 balls) left CSK reeling at a crucial point in the chase.
Social Media Meltdown: Fans Label Gaikwad As “Babar Azam Of CSK”
The backlash was immediate and fierce. With CSK struggling to chase big totals and Gaikwad consistently falling short under pressure, fans were brutal with their reactions:
🗨️ “Ruturaj Gaikwad you ain’t beating the 180+ chase allegations anytime soon brother.” – @internetumpire
🗨️ “Ruturaj Gaikwad is Babar Azam of CSK.” – @wittybinod
🗨️ “You can bet your house on a Ruturaj Gaikwad failure today.” – @Beast__07_
🗨️ “Dear Ruturaj Gaikwad, might be someone from RCB.” – @AkshatOM10
The comparison to Babar Azam — often criticized for his strike rate and inability to finish chases — was particularly stinging, highlighting fans’ growing impatience with Gaikwad’s approach and lack of impact in big-run scenarios.
Gaikwad’s Season So Far: A Captain Under Pressure
Since taking over CSK’s captaincy mantle, Ruturaj Gaikwad has struggled to find consistency. With three losses in four games this season, CSK’s campaign is teetering on the edge — and their captain’s poor form is a glaring concern.
Most notably, CSK’s defeats have come while chasing, and Gaikwad’s inability to anchor innings or accelerate in key moments has only compounded their woes. Once hailed as a future leader, his sluggish start as skipper has started to stir doubts.
Can Gaikwad Bounce Back?
While it’s still early in the season, the pressure is piling up on Ruturaj Gaikwad. The upcoming fixtures will be crucial for both him and CSK’s chances of making a turnaround. A couple of match-winning knocks can quickly flip the narrative — but time is ticking.
If Gaikwad wants to silence the “Babar Azam of CSK” tag, he needs to step up now — not just as a batter, but as a leader.
