It’s unfamiliar territory for Chennai Super Kings (CSK) fans. By this time in the Indian Premier League (IPL), CSK are usually planning playoff strategies, fine-tuning their XI, and building momentum for a final push. But IPL 2025 has turned things upside down. With CSK languishing at the bottom of the points table and officially out of the playoffs race, questions are mounting.
Yet, amidst the disappointment, batting coach Michael Hussey has offered a measured, optimistic perspective, backing the franchise’s core values and belief system.
Michael Hussey Reflects on CSK’s IPL 2025 Struggles
Speaking ahead of their clash against Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), Hussey opened up on what went wrong this year. The former Australian cricketer acknowledged the team’s shortcomings but stressed there would be no panic.
“We’re certainly not going to panic and throw everything out just because it hasn’t gone well this year. But we definitely need to tidy up a few areas,” Hussey said.
He confirmed that behind the scenes, the management is already planning for IPL 2026, with “very specific” ideas in place to address the current flaws.
Chepauk No Longer the Fortress
CSK’s strength over the years has been their dominance at home in Chepauk. However, in IPL 2025, their home ground has turned into a graveyard of hopes. The Super Kings have lost five matches at home this season — a stark contrast to previous campaigns like 2015, 2019, 2023, and 2024, where they lost just seven home matches combined.
“It’s surprising, isn’t it, to lose so many games at home,” Hussey admitted. “Other teams are getting better at playing at Chepauk. The dew’s played a bit of a factor too… but honestly, we’ve made too many mistakes – with the bat, with the ball, and in the field.”
The toss hasn’t helped either — CSK have only won two tosses this season. Yet Hussey didn’t lean on that as an excuse.
“We haven’t risen to the big moments. It comes down to execution and discipline,” he said bluntly.
Margins Define Success and Failure
Hussey believes CSK aren’t too far off the mark despite the poor points tally. The league has become so competitive that even small margins are proving decisive.
“Some games have slipped due to injuries, some due to poor execution, and some because of just a bit of bad luck,” he said. “We haven’t won many games but I don’t think we’re far off. We still have players who can win games. We can definitely compete with any team.”
Fighting Till the End
Even though the playoffs are out of reach, Hussey assured fans that the squad remains motivated and committed.
“There’s a lot of motivation in the squad. They’re a very proud group. Playing for CSK carries weight. The fan base is massive, and we want to end the season well for them.”
Hussey also highlighted the opportunity that remains for fringe players to showcase their potential.
“It’s a great chance for young players or bench players to stake a claim for next season. These final games matter – for careers, confidence and combinations.”
The Road to 2026 Begins Now
IPL 2025 will go down as one of the toughest seasons in CSK history. But rather than sulk or make knee-jerk decisions, the franchise is preparing for a calm and calculated rebuild. With Michael Hussey and other veterans at the helm, CSK’s foundations remain strong.
Bruised but not broken, CSK’s legacy means they’ll be back – stronger and smarter.
