“Has the Strategy Collapsed?” Dhoni, CSK Veterans Criticized After Crushing Defeat to KKR in IPL 2025
The Chennai Super Kings endured one of their darkest days in IPL history on Friday, suffering their biggest-ever defeat in terms of balls remaining at the hands of Kolkata Knight Riders. Chasing a modest total of 104, KKR reached the target with a staggering 59 balls to spare, wrapping up the match in just 10.1 overs. The loss, CSK’s fifth in six matches this season, leaves them languishing at the ninth spot in the standings.
What makes the result even more alarming is that it marked the first time CSK has lost three consecutive home games at Chepauk in IPL history. Post-match reactions were sharp, with former India cricketer Manoj Tiwary questioning both the decisions and mindset of CSK’s senior players—including MS Dhoni.
Manoj Tiwary’s Blunt Criticism: “What Happened to the Game Sense?”
Speaking on Cricbuzz, Tiwary didn’t hold back as he dissected what he called “puzzling decisions” from the CSK camp:
“The way things are unfolding, CSK’s campaign appears to be going downhill. Some of the decisions today were simply beyond comprehension,” Tiwary said.
He specifically pointed out the delayed introduction of Noor Ahmad, CSK’s leading spinner and current Purple Cap holder, who wasn’t brought into the attack until the 8th over—despite the KKR batters already looking comfortable. Noor immediately dismissed Sunil Narine on his very first delivery, raising further questions about the decision-making.
“Usually, MS Dhoni is tactically sharp. You don’t often see such errors from him. It’s surprising. Why wait so long to bring in your most effective bowler?”
“Has Their Thinking Stopped?” Questions About CSK’s Experienced Core
Tiwary also raised concerns about R Ashwin’s approach, questioning his line to left-handers. While Ashwin usually bowls round the wicket to lefties, he was seen operating over the stumps—making it easier for Narine to dominate.
“When you have someone as experienced as Ashwin and a wicketkeeper-captain like Dhoni, such missteps are hard to explain. Has their cricketing brain stopped working?” Tiwary asked bluntly.
Sunil Narine’s All-Round Show Powers KKR
While CSK faltered, it was a memorable outing for Sunil Narine, who delivered an exceptional all-round performance. With the ball, the West Indies veteran returned figures of 3 for 13, dismantling CSK’s middle order and ensuring the home side could only muster 103/9 in their 20 overs.
Narine then shined with the bat, opening the innings alongside Quinton de Kock. He smashed 44 off 19 balls, including five towering sixes, setting the tone for an easy chase. The pair put on 46 runs for the opening stand before de Kock was bowled by Anshul Kamboj, who made his CSK debut.
Narine was eventually dismissed by Noor Ahmad, but by then, the damage was already irreversible. Ajinkya Rahane (20)* and Rinku Singh (15)* guided KKR home comfortably, with Rinku finishing the match with a six in the 11th over.
KKR Jump to Third; CSK in Crisis Mode
With this win, KKR registered their third victory of the season and climbed to third on the points table. The dominant win also gave their Net Run Rate a significant boost. On the other hand, CSK are now under serious pressure, with five losses in six games and growing concerns around the leadership and decision-making within the squad.
