In a candid assessment, Faf du Plessis has backed Chennai Super Kings’ stand-in captain Ruturaj Gaikwad to find his rhythm after their vital IPL points haul. CSK stunned Delhi Capitals by 23 runs on Saturday, snapping a three-match losing streak that had raised eyebrows early in the season.
‘Gaikwad’s captaincy has been spot-on,’ du Plessis told Star Sports. ‘No tactical blunders led to those defeats. Personally, this win will boost his self-belief immensely.’
The Royal Challengers Bengaluru veteran pointed out how captaincy pressures often spill into batting. ‘Securing those two points lifts a massive weight. When Gaikwad next bats, you’ll see unshakeable poise.’
Du Plessis didn’t shy away from broader IPL predictions, anointing Punjab Kings as title favorites. Led by Shreyas Iyer, their batting lineup has been relentless. ‘Even Iyer, struggling for runs in the top order, delivers match-winning knocks, like against Sunrisers Hyderabad.’
He acknowledged bowling vulnerabilities: ‘Arshdeep isn’t at his best, and Jansen had an off day. But these aren’t deal-breakers. PBKS is a powerhouse.’
With CSK regaining footing and PBKS surging, the IPL race promises thrilling battles ahead. Gaikwad’s relief could spark a turnaround for the five-time champions.
