The much-anticipated CSK vs SRH clash at MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai, turned out to be a heartbreaking night for Chennai Super Kings fans. Sunrisers Hyderabad secured a convincing 5-wicket win, leaving CSK almost out of the IPL 2025 playoff race.
Toss and First Innings: A Struggle for CSK
SRH skipper Pat Cummins opted to bowl after winning the toss, making the most of the pitch and evening conditions in Chennai. CSK’s innings started on a disastrous note with Shaik Rasheed dismissed off the first ball. Despite a few good knocks by Ayush Mhatre (30 off 19) and Dewald Brevis (42 off 25), the team couldn’t build momentum.
The middle order collapsed under pressure, with CSK losing their last 6 wickets for just 40 runs. The final score was 154 all out in 19.5 overs. Harshal Patel was outstanding for SRH, picking up 4 wickets and tightening the screws whenever CSK tried to break free.
Second Innings: SRH Hold Their Nerve
Chasing 155, SRH also faced early jitters. Abhishek Sharma fell for a duck in the first over. However, Ishan Kishan (44 off 34) and Heinrich Klaasen (10 off 8) steadied the innings. When it mattered the most, Kamindu Mendis (32* off 22) and Nitish Reddy (19* off 13) showed nerves of steel and guided SRH home comfortably in 18.4 overs.
The key moment was Kamindu Mendis’ stunning catch to dismiss the well-set Dewald Brevis. It completely shifted the momentum towards SRH.
Also Read: KKR vs PBKS: Another Thriller on the Cards?
Where Did CSK Go Wrong?
MS Dhoni, speaking at the post-match presentation, admitted that CSK fell short by 15-20 runs. CSK’s downfall came from a sudden batting collapse, poor shot selection against spin, and failure to adjust to match situations. While their spinners bowled decently, it wasn’t enough to defend a below-par total under the lights with dew coming into play.
It is now an uphill battle for CSK, who remain at the bottom of the points table with very slim chances of qualification. Their fourth consecutive home defeat also marks their worst run at Chepauk since 2008.
SRH Still in the Race
This win breathes life into SRH’s campaign. A satisfied Pat Cummins applauded his team’s composed and disciplined performance after securing the win. With players like Harshal Patel stepping up and Kamindu Mendis becoming a key all-rounder, SRH’s dream of making it to the playoffs is alive and kicking.
Nitish Reddy reflected the urgency of their campaign, stating that every upcoming game is a must-win for SRH. RCB did it last year, why can’t we?”
Final Thoughts: Is It the End of an Era for CSK?
The CSK vs SRH match felt like the closing chapter of CSK’s dominance in IPL history. Their legendary consistency and home dominance seem to have faded. Big changes might be needed if CSK wants to rise again.
With this memorable victory at Chepauk, SRH supporters have every reason to believe in a strong comeback. After all, in IPL, miracles are only a match away!
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