IPL 2025: CSK Must Adapt to the Game's Evolution, Says Rayudu

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- CSK is at a critical low point in IPL 2025.
- Ambati Rayudu stresses the importance of adapting to T20 cricket.
- MS Dhoni acknowledges the need for change.
- Promising performances from young players like Brevis and Mhatre.
- CSK may overhaul their squad for the next season.
New Delhi, April 26 (NationPress) Following the disappointing performance of Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in IPL 2025, marked by a five-wicket loss to Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH), former Indian cricketer Ambati Rayudu remarked that the five-time champions will now be extremely alert to adapt to the evolving nature of T20 cricket.
Despite making several adjustments to their lineup at the MA Chidambaram Stadium, CSK's efforts to secure a victory fell short, keeping them at tenth place in the points table.
"I understand this is the lowest point for CSK, but it presents a valuable opportunity for learning. If you become complacent and fail to focus on future developments, this is the outcome you can expect. Moving forward, they will be very cautious about evolving with the game. Even MS Dhoni has recognized that the sport has progressed, and I believe he is already contemplating the team structure for next year," Rayudu said.
“We have observed some promising performances from the batting lineup, especially from Brevis and Mhatre, which are notable positives. Sometimes, a challenging season serves to ground a team and remind them that the game is larger than individual players. It’s essential to adhere to the fundamentals and maintain humility," Rayudu stated on JioStar.
The only bright spots for CSK were Ayush Mhatre's score of 30 and Dewald Brevis, who made 42 in his debut match for the franchise. Rayudu also touched upon CSK's persistent batting difficulties this season. "I don’t believe there’s confusion regarding shot selection—in fact, there is a lack of shots being played. The batters are taking longer than necessary to make their moves.”
“The personnel changes were essential, and what we’re witnessing now could be seen as a trial for the upcoming season. I doubt CSK can retain most of their current squad—at most, seven or eight players might remain," he added.
This Saturday’s IPL 2025 match will feature Shreyas Iyer leading Punjab Kings against his former team, Kolkata Knight Riders, at Eden Gardens. PBKS had previously triumphed over KKR, defending a score of 111 in New Chandigarh.
"He’ll carry cherished memories of the ground and KKR, having won the IPL with them last season. There will be a surge of motivation—he wasn’t retained, and now he is captaining Punjab. I believe he will be focused and driven. Punjab appears to be the stronger team this season, and I see them as serious candidates for the playoffs," Rayudu concluded.