New Delhi, Nov. 19 -- Former India cricketer Anil Kumble backed Chennai Super Kings (CSK) captain Ruturaj Gaikwad to open the innings in the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 season. The legendary cricketer feels that Gaikwad will bring more stability at the top for the five-time IPL champions.

In the IPL 2025 edition, Gaikwad batted at No. 3 before getting injured, with Devon Conway and Rachin Ravindra opening the innings for CSK.

After the CSK captain was ruled out due to an elbow injury, the five-time champions tried many options at the top, but rising cricketer Ayush Mhatre proved his mettle as a replacement player. The 18-year-old Mhatre played seven games for CSK and smashed 240 runs with one half-century.

Ahead of the IP...