Krishnamachari Srikkanth Critiques Chennai Super Kings After Fifth Consecutive IPL Loss
Srikkanth's Harsh Critique of CSK's Performance
New Delhi [India], April 12: Former Indian cricket captain Krishnamachari Srikkanth has expressed strong criticism of the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) following their fifth straight defeat in the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025.
Initially, CSK had a promising start by defeating the Mumbai Indians, but their performance has since deteriorated. The five-time champions, once a harmonious unit, now seem to have lost their rhythm and direction.
Chennai's struggles were starkly highlighted when they faced a heavy defeat against the Kolkata Knight Riders at Chepauk. The Knight Riders effectively silenced the enthusiastic CSK supporters, securing an impressive 8-wicket win. This marked CSK's fifth consecutive loss, a first in the tournament's history, and their third defeat at Chepauk, which is also unprecedented for the team.
Srikkanth, affectionately known as 'Cheeka,' did not hold back in his assessment of CSK's dismal performance across various aspects of the game. He criticized the team's powerplay, which concluded at a mere 31/2, likening it to a 'rehearsal' for a Test match. He suggested that the management consider bringing in unsold players like Prithvi Shaw to shake things up.
"This is one of CSK's most disappointing defeats. The batting during the powerplay resembled a practice session for a Test match. The entire team seems to be stuck in nostalgia. It's time to think creatively; why not experiment with unsold players like Prithvi Shaw? Sometimes, even chaos can be a strategy," Srikkanth posted on X.
On Friday, MS Dhoni returned to lead the Super Kings for the first time since 2023, stepping in for Ruturaj Gaikwad, who is out for the remainder of the 18th edition. After being put to bat, Kolkata took control from the very first over, exposing vulnerabilities in CSK's stronghold.
After finishing the powerplay at 31/2, CSK struggled to recover and ended up with a disappointing total of 103/9. Kolkata wasted no time, chasing down the modest target of 104 runs in just 10.1 overs, delivering a decisive 8-wicket victory that left CSK in despair.