New Delhi: As the sun set over the MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai Super Kings (CSK) were left reeling from a humiliating defeat at the hands of the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in IPL 2025. MS Dhoni’s return as captain did little to stem the tide, as CSK succumbed to their largest ever loss in IPL history in terms of balls remaining. KKR’s clinical performance saw them chase down the paltry target of 104 in a mere 10.1 overs, further highlighting CSK’s struggles this season.
MS Dhoni was unequivocal in his assessment of the loss, pointing towards the batting lineup for their lackluster performance. The skipper emphasized the need for his batters to focus on building partnerships and playing authentic cricket shots without succumbing to desperation. CSK’s meager total of 103 for nine was built on the back of a dismal powerplay, where they managed just 31 runs for the loss of two wickets.
The absence of partnerships was a recurring theme throughout CSK’s innings, a problem that Dhoni stressed needed urgent attention. He urged his team to recognize their strengths and stick to them rather than trying to emulate others. The message was clear: the need for stability and genuine cricketing prowess rather than resorting to unsuitable slogs across the line.
In contrast, KKR’s strategy, led by captain Ajinkya Rahane, was a masterclass in executing plans effectively. Rahane credited the spin trio of Sunil Narine, Moeen Ali, and Varun Chakravarthy for dismantling CSK’s batting lineup, taking six of the nine wickets. The wicket at Chepauk, known for its challenging conditions, played to KKR’s advantage, with their bowlers capitalizing on the sticky pitch to restrict CSK.
Rahane’s insight into the conditions, gleaned from his past experience playing at the venue, proved invaluable. Despite predicting a higher score, the KKR bowlers’ performance was the decisive factor in their victory. As the season progresses, both teams will reflect on this encounter with contrasting emotions—KKR’s triumph signaling hope for their campaign, while CSK’s woes deepen with a fifth consecutive loss.
