The IPL 2025 season has reached a pivotal stage, with teams beginning their return legs. As the tournament heats up, two struggling former champions, Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH), find themselves in a do-or-die situation. Both teams are still mathematically in the hunt for the playoffs, but with only two wins so far, they need to win every remaining match — starting with Friday’s clash.
CSK have endured a dismal start, matching their worst-ever record after eight games. Similarly, SRH, despite their explosive lineup from last season, have been unable to get their act together, especially in the batting department.
CSK’s Struggles
CSK’s batting woes have been their downfall, with their seasoned players failing to deliver consistently. Their auction buys have mostly been underwhelming, except for Noor Ahmad. With MS Dhoni’s leadership being the only constant, the team is looking for someone to step up. Ayush Mhatre provided a glimpse of hope in their last game, and he will need to perform again to keep CSK in contention.
SRH’s Dilemma
SRH’s main issue has been their inability to replicate the form that saw them score massive totals last season. Their batting firepower, now bolstered by Ishan Kishan, has been ineffective, and Pat Cummins, despite being their highest wicket-taker, has struggled with economy rates. SRH’s bowling attack has been the most expensive in the league, and they need to find a way to curb the opposition’s run flow if they are to turn their campaign around.
In the Spotlight: Ayush Mhatre and Pat Cummins
CSK will look to Mhatre to deliver under pressure, while SRH will pin their hopes on Pat Cummins to lead a vulnerable bowling attack. Mhatre’s recent performances suggest he could be the answer to CSK’s batting struggles, while Cummins needs to find a way to break through the opposition’s batting line-up effectively.
Team News and Probable XI
CSK are likely to continue experimenting with their squad, given their unpredictable form this season. New recruit Dewald Brevis could feature in the top order, and the inclusion of both spin and pace options will be key in Chennai’s conditions.
For SRH, Rahul Chahar, who has been effective at Chepauk, could be brought in to exploit CSK’s weakness against spin.
Pitch and Conditions
Chennai’s Chepauk pitch has historically favoured spinners, but CSK have failed to exploit that advantage this season. Spinners have claimed 27 out of the 50 wickets at Chepauk this IPL, yet CSK’s own batting struggles against spin, including their recent defeat to Kolkata Knight Riders, remain a concern.
Key Stats and Trivia
- SRH has never defeated CSK in Chennai. Will Friday break the jinx?
- MS Dhoni will be playing his 400th T20 match, joining the ranks of Indian cricketing greats like Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli.
- Shivam Dube, known for his ability against spin, has struggled this season, with the second-lowest strike rate against spin among players who’ve faced at least 50 deliveries.
- Rahul Chahar has been exceptionally effective in Chepauk, and his inclusion could be vital for SRH to curb CSK’s batting line-up.
This match, with Dhoni’s milestone, will be crucial for both teams’ playoff hopes. Will SRH break their Chennai jinx, or will CSK turn their season around?
Also Read : Mumbai’s Momentum a Big Threat to SRH – A Crucial Showdown in Hyderabad
