Diabytes
IPL 2025: How Can MS Dhoni's CSK Avoid 1st Ever Last Place Finish?
Chennai Super Kings (CSK) suffered a six-wicket defeat to Rajasthan Royals (RR), placing them last in the IPL 2025 points table with just 6 points and a -1.030 NRR. RR’s 14-year-old prodigy Vaibhav Suryavanshi starred with a brilliant 57, while Sanju Samson anchored the chase. Despite explosive knocks from Ayush Mhatre, Dewald Brevis, and Shivam Dube, CSK’s middle-order collapse continued. MS Dhoni’s slow 16 couldn’t provide a strong finish. With one game left against Gujarat Titans, CSK must win big to avoid their first-ever last-place finish in IPL history, while RR slightly improve their chances of avoiding the bottom spot.
1. Win Final Match vs Gujarat Titans
A win is non-negotiable. CSK must beat GT to reach 8 points, equal to Rajasthan Royals.
2. Overtake Rajasthan on Net Run Rate (NRR)
)
CSK’s NRR is -1.030; RR’s is -0.549. CSK need a dominant win — either by 60+ runs or chasing a target in under 14 overs.
3. Exploit Powerplay – Batting or Bowling
)
Start strong. Score quickly in the first 6 overs if batting first or take early wickets to dent GT’s momentum if bowling.
4. Finish Strong with the Ball
)
Death overs have hurt CSK this season. Tight bowling in the final 5 overs can limit GT’s total and boost NRR.
5. Promote In-Form Batters Up the Order
)
Let big hitters like Ruturaj Gaikwad and Shivam Dube face more balls. CSK must maximize every over.
6. Back MS Dhoni to Deliver a Vintage Finish
)
Dhoni’s experience in pressure games could be vital — either steadying a chase or launching late-overs assault.
7. Use Match-Ups Wisely
)
Play tactically with bowlers like Theekshana or Santner against GT’s key right-handers. Exploit GT’s weaknesses.
8. Play Fearless, High-Risk Cricket
)
To improve NRR drastically, CSK must take calculated risks — aggressive batting, attacking fields, and bold bowling changes.
9. Bring in Impact Sub Strategically
)
Use the Impact Player rule smartly — for instance, an extra batter while chasing or a death bowler while defending.
10. Stay Focused on NRR Throughout
)
Don’t just aim to win — play with NRR in mind from ball one. Every over matters in this virtual playoff for 9th place.
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
Trending Photos
10)
8)
7)
7)
)
