MS Dhoni Calls on CSK Players for Introspection Following KKR Defeat
9 days ago | 5 Views
MS Dhoni's reinstatement as captain did not reverse the Chennai Super Kings' downward spiral, as they faced an eight-wicket defeat at home against the Kolkata Knight Riders, marking their fifth consecutive loss in the 2025 Indian Premier League (IPL) season. This is the first time CSK has experienced such a lengthy losing streak, and the defeat on Friday also signifies the first occasion the five-time champions have lost three straight matches on their home ground.
In his post-match remarks, Dhoni encouraged his teammates to "look deep down inside."
"It has been several nights where the outcomes have not favored us," Dhoni stated to the broadcaster following the defeat. "What is crucial now is to introspect. I believe the challenge exists, but it is essential to embrace that challenge, identify strategies to handle difficult deliveries, and aim to accumulate runs. Today, I felt we did not post a sufficient total."
Dhoni expressed that he did not find the conditions at Chepauk Stadium particularly problematic, noting that the absence of partnerships was detrimental to their performance. "Yes, it did [stop], but that has been the trend here," Dhoni remarked regarding the pitch. "Whenever we bowl first, it tends to slow down in the second innings. However, today it was also stopping during the first innings. Losing too many wickets creates a different scenario, as it places pressure on the incoming batsman, and with quality spinners, it becomes more challenging. We never established any significant partnerships, which made it even tougher. I believe that with more partnerships, additional runs, and greater application, we can get back on track."
'If we target 60 in powerplay, it gets tough'
CSK This season, the team has undoubtedly struggled the most with their batting during the powerplay. On Friday, they found themselves in a precarious position at 18/2 by the start of the sixth over. Dhoni emphasized that CSK will continue to aim for as many runs as they deem necessary based on the prevailing conditions.
“[Powerplay batting] It is crucial to assess the conditions. There have been instances where we performed well. We do not wish to emulate other teams. Our openers possess quality, and it is vital not to become anxious when observing the scoreboard. A few boundaries can help the score progress; if we aim for 60 runs, it becomes challenging. Losing wickets means the middle order must step up, and the slog phase may not arrive,” Dhoni remarked.
“What matters is that our openers are skilled and need to trust themselves while playing genuine cricket shots. They are not inclined to start slogging or attempting to hit across the line. However, it is equally important not to panic when looking at the scoreboard. Securing one or two boundaries can keep the run rate moving. If we focus on achieving 60 runs in six overs with our current lineup, it will be quite difficult. Establishing partnerships is essential, and we should aim to capitalize during the middle and later overs. That is where our strength lies. However, if we lose too many wickets, the middle order will have to adapt their approach, and the slog phase may be postponed for some time,” Dhoni added.
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