Former India opener Virender Sehwag has raised concerns over Chennai Super Kings’ (CSK) flawed approach to run-chases in IPL 2025, particularly their inability to chase down 183 against the Rajasthan Royals. Sehwag pointed out that while MS Dhoni remains a legendary finisher, his recent track record in pulling off remarkable chases is sparse.
“Scoring 40 runs in two overs is a tough task, regardless of how great a player is at the crease. You might succeed once or twice, but that’s about it. I remember Dhoni finishing games against Axar Patel and Irfan Pathan, but how many such moments can you recall in recent years?” Virender Sehwag said on Cricbuzz.
The former opener further highlighted that CSK’s struggles with chasing 180+ targets have persisted for five seasons, making it a recurring issue rather than an isolated failure.
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Adding to the debate, former Australia all-rounder Shane Watson earlier questioned why Dhoni continues to bat lower down the order. The issue was once again raised after CSK’s defeat to Rajasthan, prompting head coach Stephen Fleming to clarify the situation.
Stephen Fleming explained that Dhoni’s knee issues, which required surgery in 2023, have limited his ability to bat for extended periods. “MS judges it himself. His knees aren’t what they used to be. He moves okay, but there’s an attrition factor. He can’t bat 10 overs running at full intensity,” Fleming said.
CSK’s struggles continued when they suffered a 50-run defeat to Royal Challengers Bengaluru while chasing 197. Watson also questioned why captain Ruturaj Gaikwad did not open, believing it weakened CSK’s chase.
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Ruturaj Gaikwad, however, clarified that it was a pre-determined strategy from the auction itself, with Rachin Ravindra and Rahul Tripathi set as openers while he occupied the No. 3 slot. With two back-to-back losses, CSK now faces mounting pressure to rethink their approach before their next encounter.
