Related Articles
The Chennai Super Kings (CSK) have hit a rough patch in IPL 2025, and former Indian cricketer Aakash Chopra believes it’s time for the five-time champions to ring in some changes. Speaking on his YouTube channel, Chopra urged the CSK think tank to consider youth infusion in the squad and called for the inclusion of Prithvi Shaw in the playing XI in place of the injured Ruturaj Gaikwad.
Table of content
“Start Looking Towards Some Youngsters” – Chopra’s Call for Change
Ruturaj Gaikwad has been ruled out of the remainder of the IPL season due to an elbow injury, prompting CSK to name Ayush Mhatre as his replacement. However, Chopra feels CSK should look beyond and bring in more experienced Indian talent to fill the gap at the top of the order.
“In batting, I am thinking whether Shaik Rasheed can be played. Can you start looking towards some youngsters? I would say call Prithvi Shaw if Ruturaj isn’t returning because you would need an Indian only. I want to see some changes because the way they are playing, the might is not being seen,” said Chopra.
“Even Dhoni’s Comeback Didn’t Help”
Chopra did not hold back in his assessment of CSK’s current campaign, noting that even MS Dhoni’s return as captain couldn’t bring a turnaround in form for the Men in Yellow.
“If I look at Chennai, I see weakness everywhere. How will you change things? You felt Mahi would turn it around, but it doesn’t happen every time. So it was a problem that he came, but things didn’t change. This team didn’t change their playing style.”
“Send Jadeja Up the Order” – Tactical Recommendations
Aakash also raised questions about Ravindra Jadeja’s underutilization in the current setup. He recommended promoting Jadeja up the order and expressed concern about the lack of contribution from both Jadeja and Ravichandran Ashwin.
“Send Jaddu up the order. What is he doing down the order in any case? Neither batting nor bowling, what is the point? Ashwin will have to pull his weight in the side as well, or else you will have to think about playing a different combination.”
“This Team Is Not Going Anywhere” – Chopra on CSK’s Playoff Hopes
Chopra was brutally honest in his verdict on CSK’s playoff chances, stating that the team currently lacks the spark and momentum to stage a comeback with the existing combination.
“This team is not going anywhere at this point in time. I don’t have anything to say for them. Generally, you have a lot of things to say about Chennai, but the way they have performed, I don’t know who can save them. They might win a game or two, but I don’t think they will start climbing up this season with this set of players.”
What’s Next for CSK?
CSK’s struggles in IPL 2025 are evident, having lost five of their six games so far, with their only win coming against Mumbai Indians. With Ayush Mhatre joining the squad as Gaikwad’s replacement, the team will now prepare for a crucial encounter against Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) in Match 30 of the season at the Ekana Stadium, Lucknow.
With playoff hopes dwindling, CSK’s road ahead appears steep. It remains to be seen whether the franchise will heed Aakash Chopra’s advice and make strategic changes to revive their campaign.
