IPL 2025: How Can MS Dhonis CSK Avoid 1st Ever Last Place Finish?
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Chennai Super Kings (CSK) suffered a six-wicket defeat to Rajasthan Royals (RR), placing them last in the IPL 2025 points table with just 6 points and a -1.030 NRR. RR's 14-year-old prodigy Vaibhav Suryavanshi starred with a brilliant 57, while Sanju Samson anchored the chase. Despite explosive knocks from Ayush Mhatre, Dewald Brevis, and Shivam Dube, CSK's middle-order collapse continued. MS Dhoni's slow 16 couldn't provide a strong finish. With one game left against Gujarat Titans, CSK must win big to avoid their first-ever last-place finish in IPL history, while RR slightly improve their chances of avoiding the bottom spot. https://zeenews.india.com/photos/sports/ipl-2025-how-can-ms-dhonis-csk-avoid-1st-ever-last-place-finish-2903916 Updated:May 21, 2025, 09:18 AM IST 1. Win Final Match vs Gujarat Titans
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A win is non-negotiable. CSK must beat GT to reach 8 points, equal to Rajasthan Royals. 2. Overtake Rajasthan on Net Run Rate (NRR)
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CSK's NRR is -1.030; RR's is -0.549. CSK need a dominant win — either by 60+ runs or chasing a target in under 14 overs. 3. Exploit Powerplay – Batting or Bowling
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Start strong. Score quickly in the first 6 overs if batting first or take early wickets to dent GT's momentum if bowling. 4. Finish Strong with the Ball
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Death overs have hurt CSK this season. Tight bowling in the final 5 overs can limit GT's total and boost NRR. 5. Promote In-Form Batters Up the Order
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Let big hitters like Ruturaj Gaikwad and Shivam Dube face more balls. CSK must maximize every over. 6. Back MS Dhoni to Deliver a Vintage Finish
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Dhoni's experience in pressure games could be vital — either steadying a chase or launching late-overs assault. 7. Use Match-Ups Wisely
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Play tactically with bowlers like Theekshana or Santner against GT's key right-handers. Exploit GT's weaknesses. 8. Play Fearless, High-Risk Cricket
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To improve NRR drastically, CSK must take calculated risks — aggressive batting, attacking fields, and bold bowling changes. 9. Bring in Impact Sub Strategically
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Use the Impact Player rule smartly — for instance, an extra batter while chasing or a death bowler while defending. 10. Stay Focused on NRR Throughout
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Don't just aim to win — play with NRR in mind from ball one. Every over matters in this virtual playoff for 9th place.
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