Mumbai: Speaking exclusively on Kuhl Fans Match Centre Live on JioHotstar, JioStar expert Ambati Rayudu offered his perspective on CSK’s current form and the learnings from their struggles this TATA IPL: “I know it’s the lowest of lows, but it’s also a great learning for CSK. If you rest on your laurels and don’t keep an eye on the future, this is what can happen. From here on, they’ll be very, very vigilant about evolving with the game. Even MS Dhoni has acknowledged that the game has moved on, and I’m sure he’s already thinking about building a team for next year. We’ve seen some shining lights in the batting line-up, particularly Brevis and Mhatre—those are real positives. Sometimes, it takes a season like this to ground a team and remind them that the game is always bigger than us. You have to stick to the basics and stay humble.”
JioStar expert Anil Kumble shared his thoughts on Chennai’s team combinations and the potential direction they need to take moving forward:
“I felt Ruturaj and Devon Conway—despite Conway not being in the best of form—should’ve started together. That pair won CSK the title a couple of years ago. Rachin Ravindra is a fantastic young talent, but in this format, he seems rushed—perhaps number three would’ve suited him better. The middle order lacked power outside of Shivam Dube. With Brevis and Mhatre now getting games, that’s a positive. But they need to start thinking beyond Pathirana. Nathan Ellis is an experienced death bowler who has delivered before, yet hasn’t found a place after the first match. With five games left, it’s the perfect time to give youngsters a decent run and start building for the future.”
Rayudu also addressed CSK’s batting struggles and the rationale behind changes in personnel:
“I don’t think there’s confusion in shot selection—if anything, there aren’t enough shots being played. The batters are taking more time than they should. The change in personnel was needed, and what we’re seeing now is more of a trial run for next season. I don’t think CSK can carry forward most of their current squad—at best, seven or eight players might be retained.”
Reflecting on Harshal Patel’s performance, Anil Kumble highlighted his experience and understanding of the format:
“Having played this format for a long time, Harshal brings that invaluable experience—especially in bowling tough overs. He’s been a Purple Cap holder a couple of times, and that knowledge shows. What stood out was his ability to hit the right lengths, particularly at venues like Chennai and Chinnaswamy. If you miss your length there, it’s easy runs. His natural ability to vary pace came through well today—I thought he bowled really smartly.”
Kumble also spoke highly of Dewald Brevis’ performance and his long-term potential with CSK:
“His ability to play spin really stood out. Chennai isn’t easy—it’s a two-paced wicket where the odd ball holds up. He’s done it before in South Africa, first-class cricket, and in the U-19s, which is how he came into the IPL. He came in as a replacement, wasn’t even part of the squad originally—and that reminds me of how one ‘Universe Boss’ (Chris Gayle) too walked in as a replacement for RCB in 2011 and became an icon. Brevis has all the shots. With Rachin Ravindra, Mhatre, and Pathirana, CSK has a young core to build on. Brevis has the potential to be a long-term asset for the franchise.”
Speaking on Shreyas Iyer leading Punjab Kings against his former side Kolkata Knight Riders, Rayudu said:
“He’ll carry great memories of the ground and of KKR, having won the IPL with them last season. There’ll be a bit of fire in the belly—he wasn’t retained, and now he’s captaining Punjab. I think he’ll be focused and motivated. Punjab looks the stronger side this season, and I see them as serious contenders for the playoffs.”
