Gujarat Titans Face Setback in IPL 2025 Playoff Race After Loss to CSK

The Gujarat Titans' aspirations for a top-two finish in the IPL 2025 playoffs took a hit with their recent loss to the Chennai Super Kings. Despite leading the table, their playoff fate is now uncertain as rival teams have remaining matches that could alter standings. MS Dhoni's future in the league remains ambiguous as he contemplates his next steps. This season has been challenging for CSK, marking their first time finishing at the bottom of the table, prompting a need for strategic reassessment ahead of the next season.

By Narendra Chaudhary May 26, 2025, 10:17 IST

Gujarat Titans' Playoff Hopes Diminish

The Gujarat Titans suffered a significant blow in their pursuit of a top-two finish in the IPL 2025 playoffs following a defeat to the Chennai Super Kings on Sunday. Despite leading the table with 18 points from 14 matches, their fate for a top-two finish is now uncertain, as the Punjab Kings, Mumbai Indians, and Royal Challengers Bengaluru each have one match left to play.

A win for RCB against the Lucknow Super Giants would secure them a top-two position, while a victory for PBKS over MI would elevate them to second place. If MI triumphs against PBKS, they would match the Titans' 18 points but would take the lead due to a superior Net Run Rate (NRR).

In a twist, MS Dhoni left fans speculating about his potential return to the IPL next year, mentioning he would take some time off before making any decisions.

During his brief stint as captain, Dhoni guided CSK to an 83-run victory over GT at the Narendra Modi Stadium.

Although CSK concluded their season with a strong win, Dhoni's performance this season was not up to his usual standards, accumulating 196 runs in 14 matches with an average of 24.50. His strike rate of 135.17 marked a decline from his remarkable 220.55 last season.

Dhoni expressed that he needs time to contemplate his future, and if this marks his farewell, it would be a bittersweet moment for fans who eagerly awaited his batting while he prepared to take the field.

In a historic first, the five-time champions CSK finished at the bottom of the table, highlighting a tough season. With only four wins, the team is under considerable pressure to reevaluate their approach and rebuild for the upcoming 2026 season.