Is there really no panic in CSK's camp, Hussey assures after early IPL exit?

Bengaluru, May 2 (NationPress) The Chennai Super Kings (CSK) are currently sitting at the bottom of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 standings, but batting coach Mike Hussey remains unfazed, insisting that there is no "panic in the camp".

As CSK prepares for their upcoming match against Royal Challengers Bengaluru, the former Australian cricketer emphasized that while the team has faced challenges this season, they are not ready to hit the panic button. Hussey is confident that the team's difficulties stem from “fine margins” and notes several positives, especially among the younger players, that hint at a promising future.

“We’re certainly not going to panic and abandon our approach just because this season has not gone as planned,” Hussey remarked to the press ahead of the Bengaluru match. With a mere four points from 10 matches, CSK is officially out of playoff contention, but Hussey believes that a few strategic adjustments could have altered their fate.

“We definitely need to tighten up in a few areas,” he admitted.

Despite CSK’s low ranking, Hussey highlighted that the margin between victory and defeat has been exceedingly narrow in many games.

“I can recall at least three matches that they could have won, and they would likely be in contention for the top four,” he stated. “I genuinely believe we are not far off.” He suggested that the primary challenge lies not in a lack of talent, but in the team’s struggle to close out tight matches.

Hussey expressed confidence in the squad's capability to compete at the highest level. “We have several match-winning players in our lineup,” he said, reaffirming his faith in CSK’s core. Although the five-time champions have faced inconsistency and perhaps a touch of bad luck, Hussey’s message is clear: the team possesses the potential to challenge any opponent in the IPL.

In this challenging season, Hussey pointed out the contributions of younger players like Ayush Mhatre and Dewald Brevis as bright spots. Their performances have shown a glimpse of what the future may hold for CSK.

“This is a fantastic opportunity for some players to showcase their talents in the IPL. I hope they seize their chances and cement their places in the squad for the coming years,” he stated. For a franchise traditionally known for favoring experience, this infusion of youth could signal the start of a new chapter.

With four matches remaining, Hussey urged the team to concentrate on restoring pride and cultivating momentum for the next season. “A few wins and some players seizing their opportunities would be a fantastic outcome by the end of this season,” he concluded.