After CSK's IPL 2026 playoff exit, ex-BCCI chief selector Kris Srikkanth slammed captain Ruturaj Gaikwad, calling him a "complete failure this season." He said, "If he's released in the auction, I can get him back for half the price." Srikkanth highlighted Gaikwad's poor form, scoring only 337 runs, and suggested CSK consider a foreign opener for the next season.