Chennai Super Kings (CSK) are in deep trouble in IPL 2025 , suffering their fifth consecutive defeat after a heavy eight wicket loss to Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) at the M.A. Chidambaram Stadium on Friday. This was also their third straight loss at Chepauk , their beloved home ground fondly called ‘Anbuden’.

Speaking at the post-match press conference, CSK batting coach Michael Hussey admitted that the team needs some serious introspection to turn their fortunes around. Despite the setbacks, Hussey remains hopeful about making a playoff push.

Let’s break down what he said and analyze CSK’s current situation.

CSK’s struggles have been mounting with each passing game. Their top order has failed to provide the necessary impetus, leaving the middle order stranded. Against KKR, they were bowled out for a paltry total, which KKR chased down with ease.

Hussey’s Take on CSK’s Performance

Hussey didn’t mince words when discussing the team’s recent performances. Here’s what he had to say:

1. On the Style of Play :
   “There’s a lot of talk about the style of our play and things like that, but the players we’ve got, we don’t want to ask them to play in a completely different way that’s natural to them.”

   Hussey emphasized that the team doesn’t need a drastic overhaul in strategy but rather a boost in confidence and consistency.

2. The Absence of Ruturaj Gaikwad :
   Captain Ruturaj Gaikwad’s injury has left a gaping hole in CSK’s batting lineup. Hussey described him as one of India’s best players, praising his ability to take games deep while maintaining a healthy strike rate.

   “He’s such a classy player. He’s got all the skills, all the shots, but also a great cricket brain,” Hussey said. “It’s a massive loss for us, no question about that.”

3. Playoff Hopes Still Alive? :
   Despite languishing in the bottom half of the table, Hussey believes there’s still hope for CSK to make a comeback.

   “We’re certainly not putting the white flag up just yet. In a long tournament like the IPL, it’s about momentum. It’s a long way ahead, and we certainly need to change things around,” he added.

What Needs to Change for CSK?

Hussey highlighted a few areas where CSK can improve:

1. Top Order Batting :
   The top order has been struggling to provide a solid foundation. Players like Devon Conway and Ajinkya Rahane need to step up and take responsibility.
2. Confidence and Consistency :
   Hussey stressed the importance of helping players regain their form. “We’ve got the right players, but we’ve just got to try and help them find some confidence and consistency,” he said.
3. Adapting to Conditions :
   Playing at Chepauk, a spin-friendly pitch, requires adaptability. CSK’s batters need to adjust their approach to counter spinners effectively.

Can CSK Turn Things Around?

While the odds seem stacked against them, Hussey remains optimistic. “I’ll be the first to acknowledge we haven’t played consistently good cricket so far in the tournament, but we have the belief that we have the talent in the room and the expertise to still make it through to the playoffs,” he said.

Here’s what fans think about CSK’s chances:

While some fans believe CSK can still fight back, a majority feel it might be too late for a turnaround.

Final Thoughts

CSK’s struggles in IPL 2025 have been alarming, but Hussey’s words offer a glimmer of hope. The team needs to regroup, focus on their strengths, and find ways to adapt to the challenges ahead.

Will CSK rise from the ashes and make a miraculous playoff push? Or will their struggles continue? Only time will tell!