Chennai Super Kings (CSK) suffered a comprehensive 25-run defeat at the hands of Delhi Capitals (DC) in Match 17 of the IPL 2025 season at Chepauk on Saturday (April 7).

Chasing 184 to win, the hosts got off to a terrible start, losing their top-three batters for just 41 runs. Rachin Ravindra (3), Devon Conway (13) and skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad (5) failed to make a mark in the powerplay. The duo of Shivam Dube (18) and Ravindra Jadeja (2) were also dismissed cheaply as CSK found themselves reeling at 74/5.

While Vijay Shankar (69* off 54) tried to resurrect the innings, he didn’t get enough support as the asking rate kept on climbing. Veteran wicketkeeper MS Dhoni struggled for most part of his unbeaten 30-run knock off 26 balls as CSK’s innings was eventually restricted to 158/5 in 20 overs.

After the game, CSK skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad acknowledged that they lost too many wickets in their chase while also admitting that things have not been going well for the five-time champions. He also highlighted their concerns in the powerplay.

“Since the last few games, it’s not going our way. We are trying to improve, trying our best, but not going our way. Definitely lost too many wickets," Gaikwad said at the post-match presentation ceremony.

“It’s a major concern even in the bowling department. We are giving away 15-20 runs extra or losing too many wickets. We are trying, but it’s just not happening," he added.

Gaikwad further stated that his team has been a bit too concerned with how they begin their innings and the onus needs to be on the players to ensure that they play positively.

“I just think that we are slightly over concerned or tentative, whoever is bowling in powerplay. And with the bat obviously, you don’t want to lose an extra wicket, but it’s just about being positive. I think it’s about being on the back foot and not being on the toes. Everyone needs to come together to make things happen. We need to make things happen," Gaikwad remarked.

“Since powerplay, we were always playing the catch-up game. We were too far behind and we only had one batter left. DC bowled really well and used the conditions really well. Even when Shivam was batting, we were looking for momentum, but it just didn’t happen," he concluded.

It was CSK’s third loss in four games this season. They will next travel to Mullanpur to take on Punjab Kings on April 8.