By Swapneel Deshpande 26 Apr 2025, 09:53 IST
Virender Sehwag delivered a scathing critique of Chennai Super Kings’ (CSK) batting unit after their disappointing performance against Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) at Chepauk. Speaking on Cricbuzz’s post-match show, Sehwag questioned CSK’s tactics and especially pointed out Ravindra Jadeja’s ineffective contribution with the bat.
Sehwag did not mince words when he addressed Ravindra Jadeja’s innings. Jadeja, who came in at number four, managed just 21 runs off 17 balls before falling to Kamindu Mendis. Sehwag slammed the team’s decision to promote Jadeja, stating, “If Jadeja is coming up the order, his strike-rate is useless. At least stick around till the 15th-18th over so the others can bat around him.”
He emphasized that a senior player like Jadeja should shoulder responsibility during a crisis rather than leaving the lower order exposed.
CSK posted a below-par total of 154, despite promising contributions from Ayush Mhatre (30) and Dewald Brevis (42). After Brevis’ dismissal, CSK crumbled quickly, losing wickets at regular intervals and failing to build partnerships.
Sehwag criticized the overall approach, remarking, “Your team isn’t even scoring runs, and you are still trying to bat at a 200 strike-rate. At least aim for 170-180 if you can’t go for 200.”
Sunrisers Hyderabad bowlers executed their plans perfectly. Harshal Patel, who has a strong record at Chepauk, picked up four wickets and kept CSK under pressure throughout the innings. SRH ensured that CSK never built any momentum and capitalized on frequent breakthroughs.
Kamindu Mendis and Nitish Kumar Reddy Seal the Win for SRH
While CSK had a glimmer of hope when SRH lost quick wickets, Kamindu Mendis and Nitish Kumar Reddy stitched a composed partnership to guide their team to a comfortable victory. Their calm approach frustrated CSK bowlers, helping SRH climb up the points table.
Sehwag raised concerns over CSK’s overall strategy, suggesting that their players seemed more interested in ending the tournament rather than fighting for wins. “Half the players look like they are just waiting for the tournament to get over,” Sehwag remarked sharply.
He added that CSK’s mindset appeared negative and that a shift in their approach was urgently needed if they intended to remain competitive in IPL 2025.
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