Published on: Apr 12, 2025
MS Dhoni’s much-anticipated return as captain of the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) ended on a disappointing note as his side crumbled to their lowest-ever IPL total at home. Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) made light work of a modest 104-run target, racing to victory in just 10.1 overs and handing CSK a humbling defeat at the Chepauk Stadium.
With fans hopeful of a Dhoni-led resurgence, the reality was far from the fairy tale. Batting first, CSK managed just 103/9 in their 20 overs, a shocking collapse marked by poor shot selection, sharp bowling, and an alarming lack of application from the top order. The crowd watched in stunned silence as Dhoni, walking in unusually at No. 9, was dismissed for a solitary run.
Sunil Narine led the charge with the ball for KKR, taking 3 for 15 in his four overs. Varun Chakravarthy and Harshit Rana chipped in with two wickets apiece, as CSK’s batters struggled to read the variations and pace on the ball. Only Ravindra Jadeja showed some resistance with a gritty 28 off 24 balls.
KKR made the chase look effortless, with openers Phil Salt and Sunil Narine launching a brutal assault in the powerplay. The duo added 71 runs in just 5.4 overs, effectively sealing the game early. Narine smashed 42 off 18 deliveries, while Salt remained unbeaten on 38 as KKR cruised to 106/2 in 10.1 overs.
The dominant win lifts Kolkata Knight Riders to third in the IPL 2025 points table, reaffirming their playoff credentials. For CSK, however, the loss leaves them languishing at ninth, with serious questions looming over their form and strategy.
While Dhoni’s return to leadership brought hope and nostalgia to CSK fans, the team’s performance suggests a deeper need for restructuring and clarity. Whether this was just an off day or a sign of larger issues within the camp remains to be seen.
One thing is clear — if CSK are to bounce back, they’ll need much more than just a change in captaincy.
