IPL 2025: Gaikwad Acknowledges Power-Play Woes for CSK
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Synopsis
Chennai Super Kings' captain Ruturaj Gaikwad has expressed serious concerns regarding the power-play phase, affecting both their batting and bowling performances, after their recent home defeat in IPL 2025.
Key Takeaways
- Power-play issues highlighted by Gaikwad.
- CSK's batting struggles with a poor power-play run rate.
- Team's performance remains inconsistent in IPL 2025.
- Importance of team unity emphasized by the captain.
- Upcoming match against Punjab Kings crucial for CSK.
Chennai, April 5 (NationPress) Following their second consecutive home defeat in IPL 2025, Chennai Super Kings captain Ruturaj Gaikwad acknowledged that the power-play segment poses a significant challenge for the team in both batting and bowling.
At the MA Chidambaram Stadium on Saturday, CSK struggled yet again with their batting strategy, ultimately finishing at 158/5, falling short against Delhi Capitals by 25 runs.
Alongside ineffective bowling, CSK’s batting faltered once more during the power-play, being reduced to 46/3, even with Devon Conway in the lineup. Their power-play run rate of 7.4 stands as the lowest among all ten teams in IPL 2025.
"Not today, it's been a struggle over the past three games. We're exerting our utmost efforts in each department. I believe the power-play is certainly an issue for us in both batting and bowling. We've identified this concern since our second match."
"We're attempting to improve, but it simply isn't materializing. I think we are overly cautious regarding the bowlers in the power-play... we're losing wickets early on. We're excessively worried about the power-play," expressed a disappointed Gaikwad post-match.
The defeat against DC was particularly painful for CSK, as none of their three spinners managed to complete their overs, with KL Rahul scoring a remarkable 77. The shaky power-play further hindered the middle and lower order from mounting a serious challenge to the target.
"Everyone must unite. We need to execute our plans effectively. Since the power-play, we've been in a constant chase. Having Ashwin at No. 8 without Overton was part of our strategy to extend our innings. DC bowled exceptionally well. Despite Shivam's efforts, we just couldn't find our rhythm," Gaikwad added.
Currently positioned eighth in the points table, the urgency is mounting for Gaikwad and his team to turn the tide in the tournament. CSK will next head to Chandigarh to face Punjab Kings, led by Shreyas Iyer, at the Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket Stadium in Mullanpur on Tuesday.
