Ruturaj Gaikwad expressed satisfaction as Chennai Super Kings (CSK) displayed a nearly flawless performance to secure a commanding 63-run victory over Gujarat Titans (GT) at Chepauk on Tuesday (March 26).

Opting to bat first, the reigning champions amassed a formidable total of 206/6 within their allotted 20 overs, propelled by significant contributions from Shivam Dube (51 off 23), Rachin Ravindra (46 off 20), and Gaikwad himself (46 off 36).

In the bowling department, the CSK pacers delivered an excellent performance. Deepak Chahar (2/28), Mustafizur Rahman (2/30), and Tushar Deshpande (2/21) all secured two wickets each, while Matheesha Pathirana (1/29) chipped in with one wicket, enabling the hosts to limit GT to 143/8.

“Today’s game was near to perfect game, in the sense of batting-bowling-fielding, all three departments. Against a team like Gujarat, we had to produce this kind of performance. (100+ runs in first ten overs) In Chennai when you are not sure how the wicket will be, you must bat well irrespective of when you’re batting. Having wickets in the last ten really helps here. Personally, thought Rachin batted and put us against in the game,” Gaikwad said in the post-match presentation ceremony.

The newly appointed captain also acknowledged Shivam Dube’s impressive batting performance for CSK, crediting it to the individualized attention provided by the management and former captain MS Dhoni.

Ruturaj Gaikwad expressed contentment with the team’s fielding, highlighting the impact of adding a couple of young players to the squad. Additionally, he commended Ajinkya Rahane for his contributions in the initial two matches.

“Jinx and Shivam played good roles. Not to forget our youngster Rizvi as well. (Assessment of Dube) Just confidence. When he came here the management worked with him personally, Mahi bhai worked with him personally. He knows what role he is playing and which bowler to take on,” Gaikwad added.