Chennai's Tactics Criticized as Form Slumps: 'Am I Playing or Not?'

Chennai's Tactics Criticized as Form Slumps: 'Am I Playing or Not?'

26 days ago | 5 Views

Chennai Super Kings, recognized as one of the most successful franchises in the IPL, is currently facing a significant decline. The Chepauk Stadium, once considered their stronghold, has seen them suffer two defeats in the three matches played at home thus far. Concerns have arisen regarding their auction strategy, particularly the absence of a powerful middle-order hitter, which has contributed to their struggles. The five-time champions have found it challenging to chase down targets, raising alarms about their performance.

Since 2020, CSK has failed to successfully chase targets exceeding 180 runs in their last ten attempts, highlighting deficiencies in their batting strategy that have not met expectations.

In the current season, CSK captain Ruturaj Gaikwad stands out as the only player in the lineup with a strike rate surpassing 150, having accumulated 121 runs in four matches at a strike rate of 155.12. However, in the middle order, where explosive batting is crucial, none of the CSK players have achieved a strike rate above 140. MS Dhoni, nearing the end of his career, has also faced scrutiny regarding his batting position and scoring efficiency, managing only 76 runs off 55 balls in four matches at a strike rate of 138.18.

Former Indian cricketer Wasim Jaffer has expressed criticism of CSK's batting strategy, suggesting that recent selection decisions have added pressure on the players.

"They're losing too many wickets early on," Jaffer remarked during an appearance on ESPNcricinfo's Time Out show. "Whether it's due to form, poor shot selection, or the selection process itself, the frequent changes might leave players uncertain about their positions, which is unusual for a Chennai team. Typically, they exhibit stability and sound decision-making. At the moment, the team appears somewhat unsettled," he added.

Historically, CSK has been known for maintaining a consistent lineup without frequent changes, but this season, it appears they have deviated from that approach.

“Looks like CSK shut shop very quickly”

Jaffer also noted that CSK's excessive dependence on their top order and Shivam Dube has hindered their advancement in the tournament to date.

"When the top order fails to perform and Dube is dismissed, it appears as though they quickly concede defeat," Jaffer remarked. "They seem significantly behind in the game, and it doesn't even appear that they are making an effort. This strategy has been particularly surprising to me; in two consecutive matches, they have given up far too soon. This is a significant issue for CSK," he continued.

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