Chennai Super Kings (CSK) have once again faced a crushing defeat, being knocked out in the first round of IPL 2025 for the second consecutive season. Under Mahendra Singh Dhoni’s captaincy, CSK is stuck at the bottom of the points table, suffering their 10th loss in 13 matches after a 6-wicket defeat against Rajasthan Royals on May 20.
Following this disappointing run, former Indian cricketer and commentator Aakash Chopra has publicly called for the removal of seven underperforming players, with Ravindra Jadeja’s name topping the list.
Players Marked for EliminationSpeaking on ESPN Cricinfo’s Time Out show, Chopra insisted CSK management should act swiftly to rebuild the team by dropping:
- Ravindra Jadeja (all-rounder)
- Ravichandran Ashwin (off-spinner)
- Rachin Ravindra (opener)
- David Conway
- Vijay Shankar (all-rounder)
- Deepak Hooda
- Rahul Tripathi (middle-order batsman)
Chopra especially targeted Jadeja, who has been a long-time CSK stalwart but struggled throughout IPL 2025.
Why is Jadeja Under Fire?Chopra criticized the decision to promote Jadeja to the No. 4 batting position, calling it “beyond comprehension.” Jadeja’s performance with both bat and ball has been disappointing this season, scoring just 280 runs and taking 8 wickets in 13 matches.
“It was a mistake to send Jadeja above Dewald Brevis,” Chopra remarked. “If I were the coach, I’d send Brevis to number 4. I want to see Urvil Patel at No. 3 and a quick-scoring partner alongside Ruturaj Gaikwad.”
Need for Fresh TalentChopra emphasized the urgent need for fresh, dynamic players in the squad. He pointed out the impact of young foreign players like Noor Ahmed and Pathirana in bowling, suggesting a similar solution in batting by bringing in another Brevis-type player.
Bright Spots in an Otherwise Dark SeasonDespite the poor season, spinner Noor Ahmed stood out with 21 wickets, currently second in the Purple Cap race. All-rounder Shivam Dube also shined with 340 runs, ranking 21st among the season’s top scorers.
Yet, CSK’s biggest embarrassment came from losing five consecutive home matches at the Chepauk stadium, winning only once against Mumbai Indians this season.
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