The Chennai Super Kings (CSK) are facing a tough season at home in IPL 2025, having lost three of their first four matches at the MA Chidambaram Stadium. This is a sharp contrast to the fortress they had built in previous years at Chepauk. Historically, they have dominated their home ground, but this season has proven to be challenging. Notably, they lost to the Delhi Capitals in Chennai for the first time in 15 years and were defeated by Royal Challengers Bangalore for the first time since 2008.
In their match against Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) on April 25, MS Dhoni once again lost the toss, and SRH captain Pat Cummins chose to bowl first, which left Dhoni visibly disappointed. When asked about the pitch and his thoughts on batting first, Dhoni admitted that he has found it difficult to assess the surface ever since it was relaid in late 2010. He explained that the wicket has not been the same since then, and it’s hard to predict whether batting first or second will be the better option, as the conditions vary.
Pitch Changes at Chepauk: Over the years, the pitch at Chepauk has undergone several changes. Once renowned as a spinner's paradise, the surface has become more batter- and pacer-friendly. In 2024, CSK had a strong home record, winning five of their seven matches, with conditions favouring seamers more than spinners. This shift has impacted the team's traditional advantage at home.
Despite strengthening their lineup with quality spinners such as Noor Ahmed, Ravindra Jadeja, and R Ashwin, the trio has struggled to make an impact in the 2025 season, and this has compounded their struggles at Chepauk.
Team Adjustments and Struggles: Earlier in the season, CSK’s head coach, Stephen Fleming, voiced his disappointment about the lack of a true home advantage, stating that the team had been unable to read the pitch conditions at Chepauk properly in recent years. He emphasized that while the team has been trying to adapt, the conditions remain uncertain.
In a bid to turn their fortunes around, CSK made three changes to their playing XI, bringing in Sam Curran, Deepak Hooda, and handing a debut to Dewald Brevis, while dropping Jamie Overton, Vijay Shankar, and opener Rachin Ravindra.
Playoff Hopes: After securing only two wins from their first eight matches, CSK now find themselves in a position where they must win all of their remaining six fixtures to stay in the playoff race.
The team will look to regain their home advantage and put together a strong finish to the season to secure a place in the playoffs.
