MS Dhoni and Chennai Super Kings (CSK) find themselves under heavy scrutiny after suffering an eight-wicket hammering at the hands of Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) at Chepauk on Friday. The defeat not only deepened CSK’s crisis in IPL 2025 but also triggered serious questions about the future of their most iconic player.
Former India cricketer Mohammed Kaif voiced his concerns on X (formerly Twitter) following CSK’s lowest-ever total at Chepauk — 103/9 in 20 overs, which also stands as the lowest score by any team in IPL 2025 so far.
“Is this Dhoni’s last season? The way CSK’s season is going, is the time right for a change? Last question: Why give a slow pitch at home when the rivals have spinners like Narine and Varun?” Kaif wrote.
A Fortress Crumbles at Home
Once considered CSK’s stronghold, the MA Chidambaram Stadium now echoes a different story. Under Dhoni’s leadership — stepping in for the injured Ruturaj Gaikwad — CSK looked out of sorts against a clinical KKR bowling attack. The decision to prepare a slow pitch backfired, especially with KKR boasting top-class spinners like Sunil Narine and Varun Chakravarthy.
CSK’s Batting Collapse
The innings began with promise as Devon Conway struck two early boundaries. But the momentum was quickly lost after Moeen Ali removed Conway in a wicket-maiden, sparking a collapse. Rachin Ravindra fell cheaply, and though Vijay Shankar was given multiple chances, he failed to deliver a meaningful contribution.
The entire batting lineup struggled to find rhythm, failing to adapt to the conditions or put pressure on the KKR spinners.
The Bigger Picture: Is It Time for Change?
With CSK’s campaign now hanging by a thread and questions surrounding their aging core, Kaif’s comments have intensified the debate about MS Dhoni’s future with the franchise. While Dhoni remains a fan favorite and CSK’s biggest icon, the team’s recent performances suggest that change may be necessary — whether in leadership, strategy, or personnel.
What’s Next for CSK?
With just two points and multiple losses piling up, CSK need urgent course correction to remain in the playoff race. Whether that includes a shift in leadership or simply a change in approach remains to be seen.
But one thing is clear — the pressure is mounting, and MS Dhoni’s legacy is now tied to how this season ends.
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