IPL 2025: Robin Uthappa Slams CSK’s Middle-Over Tactics After Loss to Punjab Kings

Former India Star Criticizes Lack of Intent Between Overs 7-12; Says CSK Let the Game Slip Despite Strong Start

New Delhi, April 9: Former India cricketer Robin Uthappa didn’t mince words as he analyzed Chennai Super Kings‘ (CSK) latest defeat to Punjab Kings (PBKS) in IPL 2025. Speaking on Match Centre Live on JioCinema, Uthappa called out CSK’s lack of urgency during the middle overs, which he believes cost them the match.

Despite getting off to a flying start in their chase of 219, CSK lost momentum in the crucial phase between overs 7 and 12. “They started well, scoring almost 9.8 or 9.9 runs per over — that’s ideal with openers like Conway and Rachin,” said Uthappa. “But once again, the game slipped away in the middle overs. Winning the powerplay is great, but if you don’t capitalize right after, you’re setting yourself up for failure.”

Uthappa pointed out that CSK needed 42 runs in the last two overs, a mountain to climb even with MS Dhoni at the crease. “Had they managed a couple of 15-20 run overs after the powerplay, the final equation could have been around 22 to 25 — very doable. But there was no visible intent. You can’t win games playing safe cricket in the middle when chasing 200-plus,” he added.

CSK’s chase fell 18 runs short, and this marked their fourth consecutive defeat, dropping them to ninth place in the points table with just one win in five matches.

Uthappa also weighed in on Punjab Kings’ inconsistent use of home venues this season, including New Chandigarh and Dharamshala. “That’s affecting their ability to establish a strong home record. You only understand the nuances of a ground — what’s chaseable, what’s defendable — through repetition. It’s hard to build a fortress when your base keeps shifting,” he said.

The match also witnessed a record-setting performance by PBKS opener Priyansh Arya, who smashed a 39-ball century — the eighth by an uncapped player in IPL history. Arya’s blistering knock laid the foundation for PBKS’s 219/6, which CSK ultimately failed to chase despite solid efforts from their top order and a fiery late cameo by Dhoni (27 off 12 balls).

As the league progresses, CSK will be looking to regroup ahead of their next clash against defending champions Kolkata Knight Riders at Chepauk on Friday. PBKS, meanwhile, will aim to continue their winning momentum when they face Sunrisers Hyderabad on Saturday in Hyderabad.