IPL 2025: Aakash Chopra criticizes CSK and MS Dhoni for lack of intent in run chase vs DC

IPL 2025 – Aakash Chopra criticizes CSK and MS Dhoni for lack of intent in run chase vs DC (Photo Source: Twitter/X)

Aakash Chopra recently analyzed the gameplay of the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) against Delhi Capitals (DC) in Match 17 of the ongoing IPL 2025 (Indian Premier League). The popular cricket analyst expressed confusion over CSK’s approach in the run chase when the pressure was mounting and wickets kept tumbling from both ends. Chopra claimed he had never seen a more insipid performance from CSK in his viewing experience.

The former Indian cricketer felt the CSK players had decided they did not want to chase the target after the 10th over of their innings. He questioned whether the batters even attempted to chase down the total and felt they defended far more than they should have.

“Chennai, what did you do? When the run chase started, wickets were falling as though it was a joke. I have not seen a more insipid performance than this from you. You probably thought after the 10th over that you didn’t want to chase. Did you even try to chase? The required run rate was mounting, and you were defending and taking singles,” Chopra said on his YouTube channel.

Where was the intent? I didn’t understand it: Chopra

Furthermore, Aakash Chopra also questioned why Vijay Shankar and MS Dhoni did not show enough intent despite being set in the middle for a fair amount of time. He acknowledged that critics might point out what the earlier batters had tried to do; however, Aakash maintained that the batters before Dhoni were not Dhoni.

Also Read: ‘Not my role to comment’ – CSK coach Stephen Fleming on Dhoni’s retirement rumours

“Everybody is guilty as charged, whether it’s how Vijay Shankar played at the start or how MS Dhoni started. The haters might come here and ask what the earlier batters did. The earlier batters’ names are not Dhoni. Dhoni is the greatest finisher of all time. If he also plays like that, where was the intent? I didn’t understand it,” Chopra added.

CSK lost the match against DC by 25 runs. Dhoni scored an unbeaten 30* (25), which included a four and a six. At the other end, Vijay Shankar scored an unbeaten 69* (54), which included five fours and a six. Together, the duo showed a lack of intent to chase down the total.

Disclaimer: The information presented in this news article is based on the author’s insights, analysis, and perspective. Readers are encouraged to evaluate the details thoughtfully and draw their own conclusions.

habiba sultana

See Full Bio