CSK to take late call on Gaikwad's availability against DC

Chennai Super Kings skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad's availability for their next clash against Delhi Capitals is uncertain due to an elbow injury sustained during their last game against Rajasthan Royals. Gaikwad got hit on the elbow while batting and looked in visible pain, but did resume and even registered his second fifty of the tournament.

Gaikwad didn't train for a couple of days in the build-up to the match, with his elbow remaining sore. However, batting coach Michael Hussey remains optimistic that Gaikwad will regain full fitness, but a final call will be taken based on his performance during the training session on Friday.

"He's going to try and have a bat today for training. And, yeah, it's still a little bit sore, but it's improving every day. So, we're very hopeful, very confident that he'll be fine for tomorrow," Hussey said.

Gaikwad is crucial to CSK's fortunes, given their early struggles with the bat this season. If he's not deemed fit, Hussey hinted that former captain MS Dhoni could lead the side, or even a young player behind the stumps.