IPL 2025: CSK Out of Playoff Race After Loss to Punjab Kings, Dhoni Cites Missed Catches as Costly Mistake

Chennai, May 1 In a major setback for fans of Chennai Super Kings (CSK), the five-time champions have officially crashed out of the IPL 2025 playoff race after suffering a five-wicket defeat to Punjab Kings (PBKS) on Wednesday. This marks CSK as the first team to be eliminated from playoff contention this season.

Dhoni Reflects on Defeat: “Dropped Catches Made the Difference”

Speaking after the match, CSK skipper MS Dhoni admitted that his team fell short with the bat and suffered due to missed opportunities in the field. “We put up a decent total but fell slightly short. The batting unit showed intent, but we needed 15-20 more runs,” said Dhoni. “Sam Curran and Dewald Brevis played a brilliant partnership, and we dropped a few crucial catches, which shifted the momentum in their favour.”

CSK Collapse Triggered by Chahal’s Hattrick

CSK, batting first at home, looked poised for a 200+ score at 126/3 after 14 overs. However, a dramatic collapse saw the team being bowled out for 190 in 19.2 overs. The turning point came in the 19th over when Yuzvendra Chahal claimed a hat-trick and four wickets in a single over, derailing CSK’s finishing plans. CSK lost their last six wickets for just 18 runs in the final 14 deliveries.

Chahal’s brilliance, combined with Curran’s 88-run knock, tilted the balance in favour of PBKS, despite a valiant start from CSK.

Chennai’s Season of Disappointments

The 2025 season has been underwhelming for the Chennai franchise. With a run rate of 8.23, the team recorded its worst-ever scoring rate in IPL history. The absence of star opener Ruturaj Gaikwad due to a shoulder injury weakened the top order, and young players like Shaikh Rasheed and Ayush Mhatre struggled to make an impact. Experienced names like Shivam Dube, Ravindra Jadeja, and Rahul Tripathi also failed to deliver consistently.

Dhoni Praises Curran, Highlights Pitch Conditions

Dhoni, however, lauded Sam Curran for his match-winning innings, noting that favorable pitch conditions played a crucial role. “He’s always looking to contribute. In previous matches, the slow pitches didn’t suit him. Today, on a truer surface, he played freely and made the difference,” Dhoni remarked.

Despite their exit, CSK remains one of the most storied franchises in IPL history. However, with aging stars and a need for rebuilding, questions loom over their strategy heading into IPL 2026.