CSK's poor record without Dhoni highlights his impact
Chennai Super Kings have struggled whenever MS Dhoni has been absent from the XI. Across seven IPL matches without him, they have won only once and lost six.
The numbers underline how important he has been to the team's balance, especially in pressure moments and close finishes.
New-look CSK tested at Chepauk in Dhoni's absence
Today's match adds weight to that trend. CSK take the field at Chepauk without Dhoni, Ravindra Jadeja, or Suresh Raina in the XI, a rare sight at their home ground. The crowd was loud at the toss and is expected to grow louder as the game progresses, but the team now relies on younger names like Ayush Mhatre, Prasanth Veer, Kartik Sharma and Noor Ahmad.
The shift is clear as CSK move through a phase of transition. Without Dhoni's experience, the side looks different in key situations. The younger players are being asked to take responsibility early, but consistency remains a question.
At home, CSK usually depend on control and experience to manage matches. Without that core leadership group, their approach has changed. The match today is another test of how well this new unit can handle pressure in a familiar but demanding environment.
Punjab Kings pull off dramatic chase of 210 to stun Chennai Super Kings at Chepauk
Punjab Kings chased down a massive 210 with five wickets in hand and 8 balls remaining, defeating Chennai Super Kings in a high-scoring thriller at Chepauk. Shreyas Iyer anchored the chase with a commanding innings, while Shivam Dube and Nehal Wadhera provided strong support as the Kings overhauled the target with ease in the end.
CSK had posted 209/5, built around strong contributions from Ayush Mhatre and a late push from Shivam Dube and Sarfaraz Khan. Mhatre's 73 and a quick 32 from Sarfaraz gave CSK momentum, but Punjab Kings kept picking wickets at key moments to prevent a bigger total.