The Chennai Super Kings skipper reflects on tactical missteps, hints at early shift in focus to 2026 after loss to Mumbai Indians.
April 21, 2025: In a telling post-match statement that may signal the beginning of the end for Chennai Super Kings’ IPL 2025 campaign, MS Dhoni has suggested the team could shift its focus to building for next year, following a disheartening loss to arch-rivals Mumbai Indians on Sunday.
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Despite solid knocks from Shivam Dube (50) and Ravindra Jadeja (53)**, CSK posted a below-par 176/5, which Rohit Sharma (67) and Suryakumar Yadav (68)* chased down with ease in a dominant 114-run stand. The defeat keeps CSK rooted to the bottom of the points table, while MI climbed to sixth after their third consecutive win.
🔍 Dhoni Admits CSK Were Below Par
Speaking at the post-match presentation, Dhoni was candid about CSK’s underwhelming performance:
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“We were quite below par… 175 with the dew around is not a par score. We could have capitalized in the middle overs before Bumrah came in,” he said.
He highlighted poor execution in the slog overs, especially against Jasprit Bumrah, as a missed opportunity.
🌫️ Dew and Suryakumar Factor
Dhoni also acknowledged the dew factor and praised Suryakumar Yadav’s handling of spin:
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“Surya is a brilliant player of spin. With dew it wasn’t turning much, but we didn’t bowl in the right areas either.”
🛑 Hint at Rebuilding for 2026
In what could be interpreted as a major shift in CSK’s approach, Dhoni signaled the team might start experimenting for next year if playoff hopes dwindle:
“If we lose a few, what will be important for us is to get the right combination for next year. You don’t want too many players getting changed,” he remarked.
He emphasized the importance of consistency and settling on a core playing XI ahead of IPL 2026.
📉 CSK’s Position After MI Loss
- Current Standing: Bottom of the table
- Win-Loss Record: 2 wins in 8 matches
- Next Goal: Try to qualify; if not, secure a core team for 2026
🎯 What Lies Ahead
With CSK staring down the barrel, their upcoming fixtures may serve less as a playoff push and more as auditions for next season. Whether this is Dhoni’s subtle farewell tour or a strategic pivot, fans may be witnessing the dawn of a transitional phase for the iconic franchise.
Tags: MS Dhoni, Chennai Super Kings, IPL 2025, CSK vs MI, Rohit Sharma, Suryakumar Yadav, CSK Rebuilding, IPL Points Table, Bumrah Death Overs, CSK Future Plans