Dale Steyn Questions CSK's Batting Tactics in IPL 2025 Match

In a recent IPL 2025 match, Dale Steyn voiced his confusion over Chennai Super Kings' batting strategy against Rajasthan Royals. He criticized the decision to send bowlers to bat in crucial situations, raising questions about the team's approach. Despite some contributions from players like Ravichandran Ashwin and Dewald Brevis, CSK struggled to maintain momentum, ultimately finishing with a disappointing score. Steyn's remarks reflect the sentiments of many fans who were left baffled by the team's tactics. This article delves into the key moments of the match and the implications of CSK's decisions.

By Narendra Chaudhary May 21, 2025, 15:08 IST

Dale Steyn Critiques CSK's Batting Strategy

Dale Steyn, the renowned South African fast bowler, expressed his confusion regarding the batting strategy of Chennai Super Kings (CSK) during their IPL 2025 encounter against Rajasthan Royals. He took to social media to voice his concerns about the unusual batting order that left many fans puzzled.

Steyn's Reaction on Social Media

On X (formerly Twitter), Steyn remarked, "CSK 3 down and they send 2 bowlers to bat. Sometimes I feel their math is not mathing." He highlighted his disbelief at CSK's decision to send two bowlers to the crease when the situation called for experienced batsmen to stabilize the innings.

Ashwin's Unusual Promotion in the Batting Order

After a shaky start, with CSK at 12/2 within two overs, the team opted to elevate Ravichandran Ashwin to No. 4. This marked only the third occasion in Ashwin's IPL career that he batted this high, raising eyebrows among cricket enthusiasts.

Partnership Between Ashwin and Mhatre

Ashwin managed to stabilize the innings momentarily, scoring 13 runs off 8 balls. He formed a quick 56-run partnership with Ayush Mhatre, who was in fine form, scoring 43 runs off just 20 balls.

Jadeja's Early Dismissal

However, the situation took another turn when Ravindra Jadeja came in at No. 5 after Mhatre's dismissal. Jadeja's performance was disappointing, as he was out for just 1 run off 5 balls, again falling to Yudhvir Singh. This led to Dewald Brevis being sent in at No. 6, a decision that puzzled many given his recent form.

Brevis' Impact on the Game

Despite coming in late, Brevis made a significant contribution, scoring 42 runs off 25 balls, including two fours and three sixes. His aggressive batting helped CSK recover, particularly as he formed a solid 59-run partnership with Shivam Dube, who scored 39 runs off 32 balls.

CSK's Late-Game Collapse

Unfortunately for CSK, the innings fell apart in the final overs. After Brevis was dismissed, the team managed to score only 17 runs in the last three overs, finishing at 187/8. Many believed that a more logical batting order could have led to a significantly higher score.

Steyn, along with numerous fans, found the team's decisions perplexing, labeling their batting approach as "bizarre" and suggesting it may have cost CSK crucial momentum in this important match.