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Chennai Super Kings (CSK) are facing early struggles in IPL 2025 after winning their first match against Mumbai Indians but suffering back-to-back defeats against Royal Challengers Bengaluru and Rajasthan Royals. With just one win in three games, CSK currently sits at seventh place in the IPL points table.
As the five-time champions look to bounce back, former Indian cricketer and ex-CSK player Kris Srikkanth has come forward with strong suggestions on how the team can fix their problems. His advice revolves around tactical team changes, including the inclusion of Devon Conway and strategic usage of Ravichandran Ashwin.
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CSK’s Opening Struggles: Should Conway Replace Overton?
One of the biggest concerns for CSK this season has been their inconsistent opening pair. The team has experimented with Rachin Ravindra and Rahul Tripathi, with Ruturaj Gaikwad playing at No. 3. However, Tripathi’s poor form and Ravindra’s inconsistent performances have raised questions.
Srikkanth has suggested bringing back Devon Conway to strengthen CSK’s batting. The New Zealand opener was instrumental in CSK’s title-winning run in IPL 2023, forming a solid opening partnership with Gaikwad. Despite being fit, Conway has been benched this season in favor of an overseas bowling all-rounder, Jamie Overton.
According to Srikkanth, replacing Overton with Conway could provide stability to CSK’s batting.
“Conway has to come in place of Jamie Overton. He is a proven match-winner and should open alongside Ruturaj. Also, CSK needs to bring in Anshul Kamboj into the XI,” Srikkanth stated on his YouTube channel.
The Ashwin Dilemma: How Should CSK Use Him?
Ravichandran Ashwin, one of CSK’s most experienced players, has had a mixed start to IPL 2025, taking just three wickets in three games. He has been expensive in the Powerplay overs, which has cost CSK momentum in key matches.
While some have called for Ashwin to be dropped, Srikkanth believes that the veteran spinner should still be in the playing XI but used more effectively.
“Don’t drop Ashwin, but stop using him in the Powerplay. Between the 7th and 18th over, he can be more effective. Alongside Jadeja and Noor Ahmad, CSK can easily manage at least 10 overs of quality spin in the middle overs,” he suggested.
Should CSK Back Youngsters Like Andre Siddarth?
CSK has been criticized for not giving enough opportunities to young, uncapped players, unlike teams such as Mumbai Indians and Rajasthan Royals. This season, CSK has highly-rated 18-year-old pacer Andre Siddarth warming the bench, and Srikkanth believes he should be given a chance.
“I would make Shivam Dube play in the XI and bring in Andre Siddarth as an Impact Player. Even Mukesh Choudhary is a good option; he has bowled well for CSK in the past,” Srikkanth added.
CSK’s Next Challenge: Can They Bounce Back?
Chennai Super Kings are set to face Delhi Capitals in their next IPL 2025 fixture. With team selection and strategy under scrutiny, it remains to be seen if CSK takes Srikkanth’s advice to restructure their squad and rethink their approach.
