Former Indian fast bowler Zaheer Khan examines the current CSK team and identifies their problems which are glaring for the franchise going through a major phase of change. He also reflected on the shortcomings in the field due to the absence of MS Dhoni.
CSK has been one of the most disappointing franchises in the IPL in the last two seasons. They have lost more matches than any other franchise since their last win in 2023, the last official season under MS Dhoni’s captaincy.
However, the concern is not just Ruturaj Gaikwad’s poor captaincy; The lack of in-form players has also led to CSK’s steep decline. However, he worked hard and revamped his team for the better in the IPL 2026 mini-auction.
Head coach Stephen Fleming is also feeling the pinch in MS Dhoni’s absence – Zaheer Khan
After two consecutive defeats in the IPL, former Indian fast bowler Zaheer Khan has revealed that the CSK team will take some time to settle down as they move in a new direction. He also highlighted the fact that even the most laid-back coach, Stephen Fleming, looked a stressed man in that dugout.
“It’s going to be a big test for Ruturaj Gaikwad this season. He is leading a franchise that has achieved a lot. MS Dhoni not being there is also a big factor. We can see this team going in a new direction. So, there will be a bit of ups and downs.
Zaheer Khan said on Cricbuzz, “It will always be difficult to replicate what MS Dhoni brings when he is not on the field. Even if you look at his last match, the coach looked really worried because deep down, he knows this is a transitional phase. So, he is trying hard to find a way to find the spark.”
Zaheer is disappointed with the Indian batsman, “Sanju is also looking for form.”
After supporting CSK in this phase of transition, Zaheer explained how CSK’s trump card this season, Sanju Samson, has been unable to translate the same kind of form to his new franchise, as the batsman has struggled scoring only 13 runs in his first 2 matches.
“There were a lot of expectations from Sanju Samson after three innings in the World Cup. The expectation was that once he dons the yellow jersey, that will continue and he will shine like gold. But he is also trying to regain his form.”
Zaheer Khan said, “If he finds form, Shivam Dubey lives up to expectations and Ayush Mhatre continues his performances, then you can see a different CSK. It has been a tough journey so far, but how will they respond? We will get to see that against RCB.”
Ruturaj Gaikwad looks nothing without MS Dhoni’s shadow
Chennai Super Kings started their campaign with a heavy defeat to Rajasthan Royals, which left them with the lowest score in this year’s Tata IPL. The five-time champions began another season with two consecutive defeats as they lost their second game to Punjab Kings while chasing a mammoth target of 200+ runs.
CSK captain Ruturaj Gaikwad had a chance to showcase his ability as a captain, as he could lead CSK for the first time in the absence of MS Dhoni. However, the captain seems completely clueless in the absence of the former captain.
It is unfair for CSK to compare MS Dhoni’s legacy with that of any young cricketer; However, Gaikwad had failed miserably to get the best out of his players. It is very clear that Ruturaj is under intense pressure.
Also read: “Hate to see him”: Michael Vaughan criticizes Sanjiv Goenka for attacking the pitch and putting pressure on Rishabh Pant
