Chennai Super Kings captain Ruturaj Gaikwad has offered a surprising insight into his toughest opponents in the IPL, naming Mumbai Indians' left-arm pacer Trent Boult as the most challenging bowler he has faced. This selection comes despite the presence of world-class bowlers like Jasprit Bumrah in the league, whom Gaikwad has often handled with relative ease.
Gaikwad revealed this preference while reflecting on his IPL journey, also pinpointing his 58-ball 88 against Mumbai Indians in Dubai in 2021 as his finest knock in the tournament. This innings was crucial in establishing him as a top-order mainstay for CSK. The young opener's candid assessment highlights the unique difficulties Boult's swing and pace present, even to established batters.
As Gaikwad continues to lead the defending champions, his ability to navigate challenges posed by bowlers like Boult will be crucial for CSK's success in the upcoming IPL 2026 season.
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“Trent Boult, the New Zealand paceman, has been picked by Ruturaj Gaikwad as the most challenging bowler he has faced.”
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Remaining unbeaten, Gaikwad finished on a superb 134 off 131 deliveries, hitting eight boundaries and six sixes to lift his team to 249 for seven in their allotted 50 overs.
Mitchell Santner’s left-arm spin played a crucial role in putting the brakes on the UAE innings, as he masterfully controlled and suffocated the middle overs. The New Zealand captain used his experience well, cleverly varying his pace and lengths to keep the batters guessing. Santner finished with tidy figures of 1 for 23 from his four overs, conceding runs at an impressive economy of just 5.8, an effort that ensured the UAE never quite found momentum when it mattered most.
Ayush… Ayush… Ayush… 🗣️💛 The champion is back home. And yeah, this moment hits different. 🏆🥹

“Trent Boult, the New Zealand paceman, has been picked by Ruturaj Gaikwad as the most challenging bowler he has faced.”