Grace and Grit: Top 10 IPL Performances of Ruturaj Gaikwad That Prove He’s CSK’s Crown Jewel

Ruturaj Gaikwad has become a symbol of class and calmness at the top of the order for Chennai Super Kings. With an effortless touch and a rock-solid temperament, he’s crafted some of the most elegant knocks in IPL’s recent memory. Here’s a look at 10 of his finest innings that earned him admiration and cemented his place as CSK’s next big thing.

1. 101* (60) vs Rajasthan Royals – IPL 2021 First IPL century — composed, classy, and clinical.
   Gaikwad reached his maiden century with poise, anchoring CSK's innings to a big total. His timing was impeccable, and the lofted drives through cover were a delight to watch.
2. 88 (58) vs Mumbai Indians – IPL 2021 CSK were struggling — Ruturaj pulled them out of trouble.
   MI had CSK at 24/4, but Gaikwad stood firm. He shifted gears after the powerplay and unleashed his strokes to take CSK to a fighting total. A knock of pure temperament.
3. 70* (50) vs Kings XI Punjab – IPL 2020 Three consecutive fifties — and a CSK win to end the season.
   Gaikwad displayed calm chasing skills, guiding CSK home with another mature innings. He showcased excellent shot selection and patience, leaving fans hopeful for the next season.
4. 92 (50) vs Gujarat Titans – IPL 2023 Qualifier 1 Big game, big knock — Gaikwad delivers under pressure.
   Against a strong GT bowling attack, Ruturaj gave CSK the perfect platform in a playoff game. His 92 laid the foundation for a winning total and a ticket to the final.
5. 60 (44) vs Kolkata Knight Riders – IPL 2021 Final Setting the tone in a title-winning match.
   In the most important match of the season, Gaikwad gave CSK a fluent start. His timing and awareness helped build pressure-free momentum early in the innings.
6. 73 (48) vs Sunrisers Hyderabad – IPL 2022 Anchoring a tricky chase like a seasoned pro.
   Gaikwad paced his innings brilliantly, starting slow but picking gaps in the middle overs. He took CSK past 170, ensuring bowlers had enough to defend.
7. 64 (42) vs Royal Challengers Bangalore – IPL 2021 Classy shots against pace and spin alike.
   Gaikwad neutralized Harshal Patel and Chahal with ease, playing one of the most elegant knocks of the tournament. His shot selection stood out.
8. 79 (50) vs Delhi Capitals – IPL 2023 Dominating a quality bowling unit.
   Ruturaj took on Khaleel and Nortje, blending caution and aggression to near perfection. His front-foot drives made for a visual treat, and CSK posted a winning total.
9. 60 (41) vs Mumbai Indians – IPL 2022 Dominating the El Clasico of IPL.
   Gaikwad made the MI attack look ordinary, finding boundaries early and keeping the run rate in control. His cool head in crunch moments continued to shine.
10. 58* (44) vs Lucknow Super Giants – IPL 2024 Chasing with elegance and efficiency.
    With wickets falling around him, Gaikwad stayed focused and took CSK across the finish line in a tricky chase. His temperament was the biggest highlight of this composed knock.

Conclusion

Ruturaj Gaikwad’s IPL rise has been built on patience, skill, and sublime strokeplay. He’s the perfect blend of classical technique and modern-day acceleration. Whether anchoring the innings or going all out, Gaikwad has become CSK’s silent assassin — and the IPL’s next batting artist in line.

*Disclaimer: This article is fan-curated and based on public match data up to IPL 2025. All stats are sourced from official IPL archives and Cricinfo.