Chennai Super Kings (CSK) captain MS Dhoni emphasised the need for building partnerships to prevent batting collapses after his team’s crushing defeat to Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai.
In what was Dhoni’s return as captain after two years, the night turned into a nightmare for the home side. Batting first, CSK lost both openers early. A sluggish third-wicket stand followed, but the middle and lower order crumbled rapidly, leaving them with a paltry total of just 103. KKR, in contrast, chased the target with ease, wrapping up the game in under 11 overs.
It was a complete batting failure — a recurring theme for CSK this season. Even the inclusion of Deepak Hooda as an impact player couldn’t lift the side to a competitive score. Wickets fell at regular intervals, and partnerships were nonexistent as KKR bowlers maintained relentless pressure.
We never got partnerships: Dhoni
“When you lose too many wickets, there is pressure, and with quality spinners, it gets difficult,” Dhoni said at the post-match presentation. “We never got any partnerships. With a bit more application and partnerships, we would be fine. It’s important to read the conditions. In a couple of games, we’ve done decently well. It’s about backing your strengths and playing the shots you’re comfortable with.”
The repeated failure of the batting lineup and the lack of accountability from key players have been costly for CSK. The absence of Ruturaj Gaikwad has further exposed the fragility in the top order, which was evident yet again in the loss to KKR.
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