Ruturaj Gaikwad Injured; Who Could Replace CSK Batter If He Doesn't Play Vs DC

Anurag Dasgupta

Who could replace Gaikwad [Source: AP Photo] Who could replace Gaikwad [Source: AP Photo]

Well, just before the crucial Chennai Super Kings Vs Delhi Capitals match in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025, the Super Kings captain, Ruturaj Gaikwad reportedly suffered a hand injury and might miss the next match against the Capitals, and this comes in as a massive blow for the team.

CSK batting coach, Mike Hussey stated that Gaikwad is a bit sore and his participation in the next match will depend on the final practice session on Friday evening. If Gaikwad misses the next match, here's who they can bring in to fill the gap.

C Andre Siddharth

If there is no Gaikwad in the playing XI, the Super Kings can go a completely different way and can opt for playing in C Andre Siddharth. The youngster shown brightly in the Under-19 World Cup and was immediately bought by the team in the IPL mega auction.

He has a brilliant technique and Hussey even gave a hint that youngsters might get a chance in Gaikwad's absence.

Time for Vijay Shankar to showcase his calibre?

Vijay Shankar was warming the bench for the first two matches, but was given a chance in the game against RR. He failed to deliver in that game, but could be utilised at Gaikwad's position if the captaain gets ruled out of the match.

Criterion
Data
Matches73
Runs1124
Strike-rate129.94

(Vijay Shankar IPL stats)

Vijay Shankar can replace Gaikwad in the side and it will mean Rahul Tripathi gets to open with Rachin Ravindra, and Shankar getting utilise at number 3. He has been impeccable in the IPL for the Gujarat Titans and could play a similar role for CSK if given a chance.

Other options to replace Gaikwad

Apart from the two names mentioned, CSK can go in with the tried formula of using Deepak Hooda at 3, but the former LSG batter has been abysmal in the IPL for the last few seasons, and instead, they can go for more reliable options in Vijay Shankar or even youngsters like Andre Siddarth.