Not MS Dhoni's Batting; 3 Real Problems CSK Skipper Has To Deal With vs KKR

MS Dhoni will lead CSK vs KKR [Source: @Ashish2____/x.com]

Chennai Super Kings' campaign in IPL 2025 has hit a major roadblock with just one win from five matches. While fans and critics often focus on MS Dhoni's batting contributions, the reality is that CSK's problems run deeper, especially now with the news that Ruturaj Gaikwad will miss the remainder of the tournament. Here are three critical issues that the CSK captain must address if the team hopes to stage a comeback.

1. Finding a Replacement for Ruturaj Gaikwad at Number Three

The loss of Ruturaj Gaikwad, who has scored 122 runs at a strike rate of 150.61, leaves a gaping hole in CSK's batting lineup. His ability to control the middle phase and accelerate when needed has been crucial for Chennai's strategy.

Table - Ruturaj Gaikwad's IPL 2025 Stats

CSK now faces the challenge of finding a suitable replacement who can match not just Gaikwad's run-scoring ability but also his strike rate, which has been vital in maintaining momentum after the powerplay. Potential options from the bench will need to step up immediately.

Middle order strike rate of CSK batters in IPL 2025 [Source: OneCricket]

2. Middle-Order Instability

CSK's middle order has consistently failed to capitalise on good starts or recover from early setbacks. With the exception of Shivam Dube and Ravindra Jadeja, most middle-order batter have struggled to convert starts into meaningful contributions.

The data reveals a pattern of declining partnerships as the innings progresses, indicating an inability to build sustained momentum through the middle overs.

3. Death Overs Execution

Despite MS Dhoni's presence as a finisher, CSK's overall death overs performance has been below par. The team has struggled to accelerate in the final four overs of their innings.

CSK scoring rate per over compared to the league average [Source: OneCricket]

In their four losses, CSK has failed to close out achievable targets, with a significant drop in their scoring rate precisely when acceleration is most needed.

Conclusion

CSK's path to recovery will require immediate solutions to these three critical areas. MS Dhoni needs to find a replacement for Gaikwad, stabilise the middle order, and develop a more effective death overs strategy. With matches coming thick and fast, time is running out for the five-time champions to turn their campaign around.

The experience of both captain and coach should come into play now, as tactical adjustments rather than personnel changes might be their best bet for the remainder of IPL 2025.

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