Chennai Super Kings (CSK), one of the most successful franchises in IPL history, are facing a tough season in IPL 2025.
Currently languishing at the bottom of the points table, the five-time champions have struggled to find form and consistency.
Here are three key reasons explaining why CSK is struggling this season.
1. Poor Batting Starts and Inconsistent Top Order
One of the major issues for CSK has been their inability to get good starts from their opening batsmen.
The team has frequently lost early wickets, putting pressure on the middle order. Even though players like Shivam Dube and Ravindra Jadeja have contributed with valuable half-centuries, the top order has failed to provide a solid foundation.
The lack of aggressive and stable opening partnerships has made it difficult for CSK to set or chase competitive targets.
2. Bowling Weaknesses and Lack of Penetration
CSK’s bowling attack has been another weak link this season. Except for Ravichandran Ashwin, who has bowled well, the other bowlers have struggled to contain opposition batsmen or take wickets at crucial moments.
In the match against Mumbai Indians, CSK’s bowlers conceded 176 runs, and Mumbai’s top batsmen Rohit Sharma and Suryakumar Yadav scored unbeaten fifties to ease the chase.
The bowling unit has failed to apply pressure, allowing opponents to score freely, which has cost CSK dearly in tight games.
3. Lack of Team Balance and Dependence on Veterans
CSK’s squad this season appears unbalanced, with heavy dependence on aging stars like MS Dhoni and Ravindra Jadeja.
While their experience is valuable, the team has struggled to integrate younger players effectively.
Debutants like Ayush Mhatre have shown promise, but overall, the team has lacked the firepower and depth seen in previous seasons.
The absence of consistent performances from emerging players has left CSK vulnerable, and the team has not been able to plug the gaps in batting or bowling.
