Too many holes to plug: MS Dhoni reacts to CSK's torrid IPL 2025 campaign

IPL 2025, CSK vs SRH: Captain MS Dhoni conceded that CSK have not been able to find answers to their problems despite giving opportunities to as many as 21 players in nine matches. CSK were outclassed by the SunRisers in Chennai on Friday, April 25.

In Short

• CSK have lost seven of their first nine matches in IPL 2025
• MS Dhoni conceded that the changes they have made has not worked
• CSK have used 21 out of 25 players in their squad in just nine matches

MS Dhoni cut a dejected figure once again as Chennai Super Kings slumped to their fourth home defeat of the IPL 2025 season. On a sluggish surface at the MA Chidambaram Stadium, they were comfortably outclassed by SunRisers Hyderabad, failing to rise to the occasion with the bat. A change in personnel brought no respite, as CSK failed to click as a batting unit and couldn't even post a par total on a dewy evening in Chennai.

The Super Kings made three changes, continuing an uncharacteristically unsettled approach this season. Sam Curran replaced Jamie Overton, Dewald Brevis came in for Rachin Ravindra, and Deepak Hooda took the place of Vijay Shankar. Having now used 21 of the 25 players in their squad, CSK are still searching for a winning combination after nine matches. | CSK vs SRH - HIghlights |

With seven defeats under their belt, CSK are now virtually out of the play-off race in IPL 2025.

When asked about the reasons behind CSK's struggles this season, Dhoni offered a characteristically blunt assessment.

"In a tournament like this, if you have just one or two areas to plug, it's manageable. But if the majority of your players aren't performing, it becomes very difficult.

"You can make a few changes here and there, but if most players are doing well, you can afford to give them a few more games. If that doesn't work, you move on. But if four players are underperforming at the same time, you're forced to make changes-you can't just keep going with the same team," he said.

Seventeen-year-old Ayush Mhatre and debutant Dewald Brevis tried to inject some intent with their aggressive approach. Mhatre struck 30 off just 19 balls, while Brevis impressed with a 25-ball 42.

However, the rest of the batting line-up-Ravindra Jadeja, MS Dhoni and Shivam Dube included-failed to get going, as CSK kept losing wickets at regular intervals.

The hosts were bundled out for just 154 in 19.5 overs. Notably, CSK have yet to breach the 160-run mark at home in IPL 2025, with their batting consistently faltering on the tricky Chepauk pitches.

CSK NOT PUTTING ENOUGH RUNS: MS DHONI

Dhoni was candid about the need for a better batting display, urging his players to assess the conditions more smartly and adapt accordingly.

"We kept losing wickets. In the first innings, the wicket was slightly better, and 155 is not a justifiable score. It wasn't turning much. Yes, after the eighth or tenth over it became a bit two-paced for the pacers, but nothing too dramatic. I feel we could have added a few more runs.

"We're just not putting enough runs on the board, and that's essential these days. The game has evolved. I'm not saying you always need 180 or 200, but you have to assess conditions and then look to put up a competitive total," he added.

With little more than pride to play for, CSK will now look to plan for the future in their remaining fixtures. The five-time champions next face Punjab Kings at home on Wednesday, 30 April.

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