IPL 2025: 3 reasons why CSK might not make it to the play-offs

The eighteenth edition of the Indian Premier League hasn’t been the best outing so far for one of the most successful T20 franchises in the world- Chennai Super Kings. Led by young captain Rituraj Gaikwad, the Yellow Army lost five of their six opening matches. To add insult to the injury, the captain had to be benched after he sustained a serious injury last week. The franchise’s most successful captain, Mahendra Singh Dhoni, had to lead the charge in the last two fixtures. Despite finally getting back to winning ways after defeating Lucknow Supergiants, things are far from ‘fine’ in the Chennai camp. Chennai boasts the record of being the most consistent team in the history of IPL, with 12 playoff qualifications in 18 editions of the tournament. However, as things stand, the Yellow Brigade may find it utterly difficult to enter the final four races as the tournament heads towards its business end.

Here are three reasons why Chennai Super Kings may not make it to the playoffs.

3. Toothless Batting line-up 

Chennai Super Kings arguably has the weakest batting line-up of all the teams in the tournament. With the removal of Rituraj Gaikwad, who has been sidelined with an injury, the batting order appears dismal at its finest. Out of form Shivam Dubey, Conway and Rachin Ravindra have added to the woes of the heavily left-handed dominated team. The team has lost four of its six fixtures while chasing targets which otherwise seem achievable in the current edition of the Indian Premier League. The absence of suitable, experienced reinforcements is going to make it even more difficult for the Yellow Army to move forward in the tournament.

2. Lack of Intent

There were three fixtures in the current season of the Indian Premier League where a complete lack of intent was put on display by the batters of the Chennai Super Kings. While chasing big targets, the batters often refrained from trying to hit boundaries in the middle overs, leaving ‘too much’ to chase in the death overs. CSK stands as the team with the fewest sixes in powerplay and complete innings. The batters have scored only 3 maximums in powerplay and 35 in all of IPL 2025 so far. With the lack of firepower, CSK may not last until the playoff stage of the tournament.

1. Net-run-rate in grave

Chennai Super Kings stand at the bottom of the IPL 2025 standings with only two victories in 7 matches. Their net run rate is also at a rock bottom of -1.276. To turn things around in their favour, CSK not only has to win but has to do it comprehensively. Assessing the current form of players and the bench strength they possess seems a monumental task, particularly when the team is missing the services of some of their key players.

Disclaimer: This Exclusive News is based on the author’s understanding, analysis, and instinct. As you review this information, consider the points mentioned and form your own conclusions.

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