In a high-stakes clash at the Barsapara Cricket Stadium in Guwahati, the Rajasthan Royals (RR) defeated the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in Match 11 of IPL 2025, marking a significant turnaround for RR in the points table. Despite MS Dhoni's late appearance in the batting order, CSK fell short, leaving fans and analysts questioning their strategy and form.
Batting first, RR posted a competitive total of 141/5 in their 20 overs. Contributions came from Riyan Parag (47* off 35) and Dhruv Jurel (28 off 18), who stabilized the innings after a slow start from Yashasvi Jaiswal (24 off 21) and Jos Buttler (21 off 25). CSK bowler Simarjeet Singh shone with figures of 3/26, while Tushar Deshpande picked up two wickets.
CSK struggled to chase down the target, with their batting lineup failing to fire under pressure.MS Dhoni batted unusually low at No. 9, raising eyebrows as the required run rate climbed above 15 runs per over.Despite contributions from Ruturaj Gaikwad (42* off 41) and Rachin Ravindra (27 off 18), CSK fell short by a significant margin.
The decision to send MS Dhoni lower down the order became the biggest talking point of the game. With CSK already struggling to maintain momentum, Dhoni's late entry left many questioning the team's strategy. His inability to impact the game at a crucial juncture added to CSK's woes.
RR's bowlers, including Ravichandran Ashwin, kept CSK's batters under control on a slow Guwahati pitch that favored spin.CSK’s reliance on their openers—Ruturaj Gaikwad and Rachin Ravindra—continues to expose their fragile middle order.RR’s captain Sanju Samson played as an impact player due to injury but contributed tactically to ensure his team’s victory.
RR’s victory over CSK not only reshapes the points table but also highlights critical areas for improvement for both teams. While RR has regained momentum, CSK must rethink their strategies, particularly around batting order decisions and middle-order stability.