MS Dhoni Not At Fault - These 3 Players Are Dragging CSK Down

CSK will need these experienced players to step up if they want to keep their playoff hopes alive.

CSK's recent 18-run loss to Punjab Kings further dented their playoff hopes.

Source : PTI

Five-time winners Chennai Super Kings (CSK) are having a tough time in Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025. With just one win in five games, they find themselves languishing at the 9th spot on the points table with only two points.

Their recent 18-run loss to Punjab Kings further dented their playoff hopes, and with nine matches still to go, a major turnaround is needed.

While Ruturaj Gaikwad is leading the side, the team's poor form can largely be attributed to the underperformance of some key players. Notably, Ravichandran Ashwin, Shivam Dube, and Vijay Shankar have struggled to make an impact this season.

Vijay Shankar – Failing to Capitalize

All-rounder Vijay Shankar has featured in three matches this season. He was dismissed for 9 runs in his first game against Rajasthan Royals. Though he scored 69 off 54 balls against Delhi Capitals, the slow pace of his innings was widely criticized and proved costly for the team. In the match against Punjab, he remained unbeaten on just 2 off 2 balls.

Shivam Dube – Inconsistent with the Bat

Shivam Dube's form has been a letdown for Chennai Super Kings. He has scored just 106 runs in five matches, with his highest being 42 off 27 balls against Punjab. His other scores – 18, 18, 19, and 9 – haven't offered much support in the middle order. So far, he hasn't bowled a single over, limiting his contribution to just batting.

Ravichandran Ashwin – Expensive and Ineffective

Veteran off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has had a below-par season so far. In five matches, he has managed just five wickets at an average of 33.60. His economy has also been a concern — he conceded 48 runs in four overs against Punjab Kings and gave away 46 runs in a similar spell against Rajasthan Royals.

With the tournament reaching a crucial stage, CSK will need these experienced players to step up if they want to keep their playoff hopes alive.