Printed on: Apr 12, 2025
MS Dhoni’s much-anticipated return as captain of the Chennai Tremendous Kings (CSK) ended on a disappointing notice as his aspect crumbled to their lowest-ever IPL whole at residence. Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) made mild work of a modest 104-run goal, racing to victory in simply 10.1 overs and handing CSK a humbling defeat on the Chepauk Stadium.
With followers hopeful of a Dhoni-led resurgence, the fact was removed from the fairy story. Batting first, CSK managed simply 103/9 of their 20 overs, a surprising collapse marked by poor shot choice, sharp bowling, and an alarming lack of utility from the highest order. The gang watched in surprised silence as Dhoni, strolling in unusually at No. 9, was dismissed for a solitary run.
Sunil Narine led the cost with the ball for KKR, taking 3 for 15 in his 4 overs. Varun Chakravarthy and Harshit Rana chipped in with two wickets apiece, as CSK’s batters struggled to learn the variations and tempo on the ball. Solely Ravindra Jadeja confirmed some resistance with a gritty 28 off 24 balls.
KKR made the chase look easy, with openers Phil Salt and Sunil Narine launching a brutal assault within the powerplay. The duo added 71 runs in simply 5.4 overs, successfully sealing the sport early. Narine smashed 42 off 18 deliveries, whereas Salt remained unbeaten on 38 as KKR cruised to 106/2 in 10.1 overs.
The dominant win lifts Kolkata Knight Riders to 3rd within the IPL 2025 factors desk, reaffirming their playoff credentials. For CSK, nevertheless, the loss leaves them languishing at ninth, with severe questions looming over their kind and technique.
Whereas Dhoni’s return to management introduced hope and nostalgia to CSK followers, the crew’s efficiency suggests a deeper want for restructuring and readability. Whether or not this was simply an off day or an indication of bigger points inside the camp stays to be seen.
One factor is obvious — if CSK are to bounce again, they’ll want far more than only a change in captaincy.
