Chennai Super Kings (CSK), one of the most successful franchises in IPL history, is currently facing a difficult phase in IPL 2025. Their once-impenetrable home ground, Chepauk, has lost its magic, with the team suffering two losses out of three home matches played thus far. The team’s main issue lies in their lack of power hitters in the middle order, a decision made during the auction that is now under scrutiny. Their inability to chase down competitive targets has left fans and analysts questioning the team’s strategies.
Batting Failures and Inability to Chase Big Targets
With three defeats in their first four matches of IPL 2025, CSK’s struggles are becoming increasingly evident. They have failed to chase targets above 180 in their last ten attempts since 2020, exposing the weaknesses in their batting approach.
In the current season, Ruturaj Gaikwad is the only player with a strike rate above 150, having scored 121 runs in four matches. Sadly, no other batsman in the middle order has managed to generate the required momentum, with no one surpassing a strike rate of 140. MS Dhoni, nearing the end of his illustrious career, is also being questioned for his slow strike rate, accumulating only 76 runs off 55 balls in four matches at a strike rate of 138.18.
Wasim Jaffer Highlights CSK’s Instability
Former cricketer Wasim Jaffer has expressed his concerns over CSK’s current batting approach and the inconsistency in their player selection, which seems to be putting extra pressure on the team. On ESPNcricinfo’s Time Out show, Jaffer pointed out that CSK is losing too many early wickets, which could be due to a mix of poor shot selection, lack of form, and too many changes in the lineup.
“The team is losing wickets early,” Jaffer said. “The usual stability seems missing, and the players may be uncertain about their roles.”
Dependence on Top Order and Dube’s Performance
CSK’s heavy reliance on their top order and Shivam Dube has also been a cause for concern. “When the top order falters and Dube is dismissed, the team seems to lose momentum quickly,” Jaffer noted. “It’s as if they give up too early, and that approach is troubling.”
If CSK does not make necessary adjustments, their chances of advancing in the tournament may diminish further.
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