New Delhi, April 21 (NationPress) Former Indian cricketer Ambati Rayudu believes that Chennai Super Kings are unlikely to recover this season in the IPL 2025 after their defeat against Mumbai Indians at Wankhede Stadium on Sunday.

This marks CSK's sixth defeat in eight matches, placing them at the bottom of the points table.

Once again, CSK struggled to secure a strong start from their openers. However, debutant Ayush Mhatre showcased potential with a commendable score of 32 runs off 15 balls, including two sixes and four fours. Following this, Ravindra Jadeja and Shivam Dube contributed with half-centuries, helping the team reach 176/5 in their 20 overs after being put in to bat first.

In response, Rohit Sharma delivered an impressive unbeaten 76, featuring six sixes and four fours, while Suryakumar Yadav also remained not out with a rapid 68 runs off 30 balls, hitting five sixes and six fours, completing the chase in just 15.4 overs with nine wickets in hand.

"I don’t see them coming back this season. Even Dhoni acknowledged this in his post-match remarks, stating they are already looking towards the next season. They will want to nurture young talent and foster a culture of fearless, yet not reckless, cricket. There needs to be a more positive approach. Perhaps someone like Ayush Mhatre could get a full opportunity moving forward," Rayudu said on JioHotstar.

Discussing CSK's performance and their shortcomings, Rayudu pointed out the team lacked aggression during the match.

"It was during the middle overs—about seven overs for just 35 runs—that cost them dearly. No team plays like that anymore in T20 cricket. The game has progressed, and teams need to maintain a good strike rate even in the middle overs. CSK was lacking in intent. Losing is one thing, but there must be a fight. You cannot just coast through a phase and expect to finish strong later. That pitch required at least 190 runs to be competitive, and what CSK managed was well below par. Their batting during the critical middle overs was insufficient," the former CSK player stated.

On Rohit’s resurgence, Rayudu noted that the opening batsman appeared eager for runs and delivered the substantial innings everyone anticipated from him.

"I think he took some time to find his rhythm but played some outstanding shots through the off-side. He wasn’t just focused on pulling everything to the on-side. He has a history of scoring runs, but today he looked hungry," Rayudu remarked.

"He wanted to spend time at the crease and secure the victory for Mumbai Indians. Knowing Rohit, he is always close to delivering big performances, and with the tournament entering its crucial phase, innings like this will not only boost his confidence but also uplift the morale of the Mumbai Indians management and team," he added.

Mumbai Indians are set to face Sunrisers Hyderabad in an away match on Wednesday, while CSK will go up against the same team on Friday in Chennai.