The Chennai Super Kings (CSK) have long been celebrated as one of the Indian Premier League’s most consistent and formidable franchises. However, IPL 2025 is painting a very different picture. After the captaincy transition from the legendary MS Dhoni to Ruturaj Gaikwad, CSK has found itself in a slump—losing 4 out of their first 5 games this season.
What was once a franchise built on stability, leadership, and fearless intent now seems fractured. The question everyone is asking: what exactly is going wrong for CSK this year?
Top-Order Trouble: No Firepower at the Start
One of the clearest issues plaguing Chennai Super Kings this season is their lackluster top order. The opening combination of Devon Conway and Rachin Ravindra has failed to provide any meaningful momentum during the powerplay.
Neither batsman has shown urgency or aggression early on.
Run rates during the first six overs have been among the lowest in the league.
The duo lacks chemistry and intent—something CSK relied on heavily in their golden years.
In previous seasons, the top order laid a solid foundation, allowing the middle order to capitalize. That’s no longer the case in 2025.
Ruturaj Gaikwad’s Captaincy Under the Scanner
While Ruturaj Gaikwad has had his moments with the bat, his strike rate under 180 and subdued leadership style are becoming problematic.
He’s not setting the tone as a captain or batter.
In-game decisions appear reactive rather than proactive.
There’s a visible lack of inspiration within the team.
Even though MS Dhoni still guides from behind the stumps, it’s clear that passive mentorship isn’t enough to steer the ship anymore.
Middle-Order Meltdown: Inconsistency and Ineffectiveness
CSK’s middle order—which once featured names like Suresh Raina and Faf du Plessis—is now a shadow of its former self.
Shivam Dube is inconsistent, making it hard to build momentum.
Ravindra Jadeja, though experienced, isn’t the same game-changer with the bat.
Dhoni, now 43, enters too late in the innings to have a meaningful impact.
The team lacks finishers who can anchor or accelerate as needed. Without a reliable core in the middle, CSK finds itself collapsing even in chaseable games.
Dhoni’s Role: Love for the Game, Not Leadership
MS Dhoni’s influence over CSK can never be overstated. His legacy is untouchable. But in 2025, his presence feels more symbolic than strategic.
He’s clearly playing for the love of the sport, not as a central figure in the team’s planning.
Calls for him to retake captaincy are understandable—but unrealistic.
At this stage of his career, Dhoni shouldn’t be the crutch CSK leans on. The team needs a new leader with tactical awareness, aggression, and the ability to inspire under pressure.
Fan Reactions and the Call for Change
CSK fans are some of the most loyal in the IPL, but even they are beginning to question the franchise’s direction.
Social media is buzzing with calls for a change in captaincy.
The “CSK culture” of backing players too long is being scrutinized.
Some suggest that the team is now “too nice” and lacks the killer instinct.
The sentiment is clear: if CSK doesn’t act now, they risk fading into irrelevance.
What CSK Needs to Do to Bounce Back
To avoid further damage this season and prepare for the future, Chennai Super Kings must address their core structural weaknesses:
Revamp the Opening Pair: Consider bringing in a power-hitter who can make use of the powerplay.
Rebuild the Middle Order: Invest in younger, dynamic players who can handle pressure situations.
Leadership Overhaul: If Ruturaj Gaikwad continues to struggle, a change in captaincy—even mid-season—might be necessary.
Tactical Innovation: The team must adapt to the modern T20 game instead of relying on legacy strategies.
Final Thoughts: Is This the End of an Era?
Chennai Super Kings are undoubtedly at a crossroads. The disjointed performances, leadership vacuum, and lack of batting intent are not just blips—they are indicators of a deeper decline.
For a franchise that set the gold standard in the IPL, this fall from grace is hard to watch. But all is not lost. With the right changes, CSK can still revive their campaign—or at the very least—start building for a brighter future.
Will CSK rise from the ashes once again? Only time—and bold decisions—will tell.