IPL countdown | Consistency key to CSK’s pursuit of sixth title

Dhoni in action at the nets as Jadeja looks on in Chennai on Thursday.
| Photo Credit: PTI

Since the start of the IPL, Chennai Super Kings (CSK) has been the epitome of consistency, reaching the Playoffs on every occasion it played from 2008 to 2019. However, since 2020, the team has blown hot and cold every alternate season. CSK did not qualify for the knockouts thrice (2020, 2022 & 2024) while clinching the title in 2021 and 2023.

Last year, Super Kings failed to progress narrowly, losing out to Royal Challengers Bengaluru on Net Run Rate (NRR). After posting four wins in the first six games, CSK’s campaign stuttered towards the business-end of the league stage, adding just three more victories. The lack of firepower in the middle-order and the inability of the Indian pacers to step up proved costly.

The Yellow Brigade has always looked to maximise its home conditions, which aid the tweakers, and has doubled down on its tried-and-tested ‘spin to win’ formula. The franchise spent big bucks at the mega auction to secure Afghanistan left-arm wrist spinner Noor Ahmad and local hero R. Ashwin, the squad’s two most expensive picks.

Apart from the spin duo, CSK has focused on building a strong India core, including batter Rahul Tripathi and pacers Khaleel Ahmed and Anshul Kamboj.

Importance of Curran

Crucially, it managed to buy back Devon Conway and Rachin Ravindra at the auction. Conway’s absence last year hurt the team, as it struggled to get good starts despite skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad’s fine form. Their opening association was a key element of success two years ago, and the two will look to rekindle it.

However, there are areas of concern for Super Kings. The outfit lacks a big-hitting overseas professional and will hope Sam Curran can fill that role.

Similarly, apart from Matheesha Pathirana, none of the other quicks possess the X-factor. As has been the case during the last few seasons, all eyes will be on M.S. Dhoni and his future. Last year, the five-time trophy-winning skipper turned the clock back with vital cameos. The fans and the management will pray that the 43-year-old icon remains in the six-hitting zone.

Finally, it will be a massive test for Ruturaj in his second year in the hot seat even as the IPL giant prepares for a post-Dhoni era.