Chennai Super Kings (CSK) have slipped to the 9th spot in the IPL 2025 points table after suffering a narrow 18-run defeat against Punjab Kings (PBKS) in Match 22 at the Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket Stadium, Mullanpur. The loss marks CSK’s fourth in five matches this season, leaving them with just 2 points and a concerning net run rate of -0.889.
Punjab Kings, on the other hand, climbed to fourth position with their third win in four games. This was only their second-ever win in Mullanpur, and it came courtesy of a sensational batting performance from young Priyansh Arya, who lit up the ground with his fearless strokeplay and reminded fans of Paul Valthaty’s iconic knock against CSK years ago.
Batting first, PBKS posted a mammoth 219/6, setting the tone early. Despite a promising start from Devon Conway (69 off 49) and Rachin Ravindra, CSK’s chase lacked momentum. Shivam Dube threatened to shift the game but fell under pressure, partly due to Conway’s slow scoring in the middle overs.
In a bold and rare move, CSK retired Conway out in the 18th over, bringing in Ravindra Jadeja, hoping for late fireworks. However, the decision proved too late. Despite a late cameo from MS Dhoni, who smashed 27 off 12 balls, Chennai could only manage 201/5 in their 20 overs.
This result means CSK now sits above only Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH), who also have one win from five games but hold a worse NRR (-1.629). With the season reaching its midway stage, CSK’s playoff hopes are hanging by a thread, and questions over their middle-order strategy and fielding lapses continue to mount.
Meanwhile, Delhi Capitals, Gujarat Titans, Royal Challengers Bengaluru, and Punjab Kings are locked at 6 points each at the top, separated only by Net Run Rate.
As CSK regroup, much of the focus will be on their batting combinations, decision-making under pressure, and the possible over-reliance on Dhoni’s finishing cameos.
