Friday night at Chepauk delivered more than just another defeat for Chennai Super Kings—it sparked a wave of introspection. The team’s dismal performance against Kolkata Knight Riders, resulting in a crushing eight-wicket loss, has left fans deflated and raised difficult questions about the team’s trajectory.
Among the voices echoing concern was that of former India cricketer Mohd Kaif, who turned to social media to challenge the current direction of the franchise and ponder the fate of its most revered figure—MS Dhoni.
Mohd Kaif didn’t hold back, expressing his thoughts candidly on X (formerly Twitter): “Is this Dhoni’s last season? The way CSK’s season is going, is the time right for a change? Last question: Why give a slow pitch at home when the rivals have spinners like Narine and Varun?”
His remarks came in the wake of CSK’s shocking collapse to 103/9—their lowest total at Chepauk and the worst by any team in the 2025 IPL season. With Dhoni stepping in as captain due to Ruturaj Gaikwad’s absence, the match highlighted not just tactical missteps but a sense of fading dominance at what was once CSK’s impenetrable home ground.
For a franchise steeped in legacy and led by a legend, Kaif’s questions strike at the heart of what may be a transitional phase. Whether this season becomes a turning point—or a farewell tour—remains to be seen.
