A highly anticipated match at the MA Chidambaram Stadium on April 11, 2025, the Chennai
Super Kings (CSK) vs the last time winners, Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) turned out to be a
challenging game for the home team. All fans were looking forward to watching MS Dhoni back
as captain and were hoping he would bring back CSK’s glory days in a home game.
However, CSK’s batting lineup faltered, posting their lowest-ever total at Chepauk, 103/9 in 20
overs. KKR chased down the target comfortably in just 10.1 overs, winning by 8 wickets. Sunil
Narine was instrumental in KKR’s victory, taking 3 wickets and scoring a quick 44 off 18 balls.
The CSK batting order struggled, with seven players failing to reach double digits. Dhoni, batting
at number 9, managed only 1 run. This defeat marks CSK’s fifth consecutive loss, ensuring they
stay at the ninth position, while KKR race ahead a few positions higher.
Dhoni who was celebrated a day before for taking up the captaincy, saw himself once again
being criticised by experts and fans alike, doubting if he still has it in him to be a match winner.
Despite the setback, batting coach Mike Hussey remains hopeful, emphasizing the importance
of momentum in the tournament’s long format.
While the debate continues on whether Dhoni was out or not, it looks very likely that CSK are
heading towards being out of the playoffs.
Will the sixth game against the Lucknow Super Giants on April 14 be the one to change fortunes
for CSK?
