Former India cricketer Anil Kumble has shared his thoughts on the Chennai Super Kings’ (CSK) strategies following their seventh loss in the IPL 2025 season. CSK’s recent five-wicket loss to Sunrisers Hyderabad at home showed the ongoing issues within the team.
Kumble believes now the team should focus on potential improvements in team combinations and strategies for the remainder of the season. CSK are now virtually out of the playoff race; even if they win their remaining matches, the chances of getting through are very slim.
What went wrong for CSK?
Kumble believs the importance of reinstating the successful opening partnership of Ruturaj Gaikwad and Devon Conway, despite Conway’s current form dip. “I felt Ruturaj and Devon Conway—despite Conway not being in the best of form—should’ve started together. That pair won CSK the title a couple of years ago,” Kumble said. He believes this duo’s proven track record is essential for CSK’s success.
Kumble also suggests changes in the batting order, particularly for Rachin Ravindra, proposing he might be better suited to the number three position. “Rachin Ravindra is a fantastic young talent, but in this format, he seems rushed—perhaps number three would’ve suited him better,” he noted, suggesting this could provide Ravindra with more time to settle and play his natural game.
Middle-order power vacuum & bowling
Addressing CSK’s middle-order issues, Kumble notes the lack of power-hitting beyond Shivam Dube. He sees the inclusion of youngsters Dewald Brevis and Ayush Mhatre as positive steps, “With Brevis and Mhatre now getting games, that’s a positive,” he said.
In the bowling department, Kumble advises CSK to look beyond Matheesha Pathirana and consider giving Nathan Ellis a more regular role, given his experience in death bowling. “Nathan Ellis is an experienced death bowler who has delivered before, yet hasn’t found a place after the first match,” he mentioned, advocating for Ellis to have a consistent chance to show his abilities.
What should CSK do now in 5 matches?
With CSK’s playoff chances slimming, Kumble highlights the need to focus on youth development. “With five games left, it’s the perfect time to give youngsters a decent run and start building for the future,” Kumble said. He believes this approach aligns with the necessity for teams like CSK to evolve and identify their core players for future seasons.
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