Chennai Super Kings (CSK)‘s IPL 2025 campaign continues to spiral downward as the five-time champions suffered their fifth loss in six matches, raising serious concerns over their chances of making it to the playoffs. The latest blow came at the hands of Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in Match 25, where CSK were completely outplayed in all departments. With just one win so far, the path to the top four looks increasingly challenging for the Yellow Army.

CSK slump under MS Dhoni’s first outing as captain in IPL 2025

With regular skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad ruled out of the tournament due to injury, MS Dhoni returned to lead the side for the first time this season. However, his comeback to captaincy couldn’t inspire a turnaround, as CSK stumbled to their lowest score at the MA Chidambaram Stadium — managing only 103/9 in 20 overs after being put into bat. KKR’s decision to bowl first paid off handsomely, as CSK never got going and failed to build any partnerships.

Sunil Narine shines with bat and ball

Sunil Narine was the standout performer for Kolkata, delivering a masterclass with both ball and bat. He picked up 3 crucial wickets during CSK’s innings, applying pressure right from the start. Later, opening the chase, Narine unleashed an aggressive knock of 44 runs off just 18 balls, including 5 towering sixes and 2 boundaries. His all-round brilliance helped KKR chase down the target in just 10.1 overs, sealing a comprehensive win.

Also READ: Fans erupt as Sunil Narine’s all-round heroics propel KKR to a dominant win over CSK in IPL 2025

Michael Hussey remains hopeful for a turnaround

Despite the string of defeats, CSK’s batting coach Michael Hussey urged fans and players alike not to lose hope. In the post-match press conference, Hussey admitted the team was hurting but emphasized that the season was still alive.

“Well, this one hurts a lot. I mean, it really does. The players are hurting, and the support staff are hurting. And as I said earlier, the fans, I’m sure, are hurting with this one as well. This is a time where you really find out who are your true supporters,” said Hussey.

Hussey acknowledged the tough times and suggested that such phases reveal the true supporters. However, he made it clear that CSK are far from giving up, emphasizing that in a long tournament like the IPL, momentum plays a crucial role. While he admitted that the team hasn’t been playing consistent cricket, he remained optimistic that fortunes can change quickly if they start building rhythm in the upcoming games.

“We’re certainly not putting the white flag up just yet… In a big, long tournament like the IPL, it is about momentum. We haven’t been playing good cricket consistently. We definitely acknowledge that. But that’s not to say things can’t turn around and can’t turn around quickly,” he added.

Also WATCH: IPL 2025 – Sunil Narine spoils MS Dhoni’s captaincy comeback for CSK during clash against KKR

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