MS Dhoni Already Planning for the Future: Ambati Rayudu Drops Bombshell on CSK’s Struggles in IPL 2025
In a shocking revelation after Chennai Super Kings’ (CSK) disappointing performance in IPL 2025, former India batter Ambati Rayudu has hinted that captain MS Dhoni is already looking ahead to rebuild the team for the next season amidst their ongoing struggles. The five-time champions suffered yet another defeat, losing by five wickets to Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) at the iconic MA Chidambaram Stadium, and remain anchored at the bottom of the points table in tenth place.
Rayudu, speaking on JioStar, didn’t shy away from addressing CSK’s harsh reality. ‘I know it’s the lowest of lows for CSK, but it’s also a great learning curve. Resting on past laurels without evolving with the modern game can lead to such downfall. From here, they’ll be extremely vigilant about adapting to the dynamic nature of T20 cricket. Even MS Dhoni acknowledges that the game has moved on, and I’m certain he’s already strategizing for a stronger squad next year,’ he remarked.
Despite the gloom, there were glimmers of hope in CSK’s batting lineup. Debutant Dewald Brevis scored a promising 42 runs, showcasing his potential as a future star, while Ayush Mhatre contributed a steady 30 runs. Rayudu highlighted these performances as silver linings, stating, ‘We’ve seen shining lights in Brevis and Mhatre—real positives for CSK. Sometimes, a tough season like this grounds a team, reminding them that the game is always bigger. Sticking to basics and staying humble is key.’
CSK’s batting woes have been a recurring theme this season, with Rayudu pointing out a lack of aggression. ‘There’s no confusion in shot selection; rather, there aren’t enough shots being played. The batters are taking too much time to settle, which is costing us,’ he analyzed. With just 7 wins in 14 matches across IPL history against SRH, CSK’s challenges against this opposition have only deepened in 2025.
On the team’s frequent changes in personnel, Rayudu suggested that CSK is in a trial phase. ‘The changes were necessary, and what we’re witnessing now feels like a preparation for the next season. I don’t see CSK retaining more than 7 or 8 players from the current squad. It’s about building a fresh, competitive unit,’ he opined, hinting at a major overhaul during the next IPL auction.
Shifting focus to other IPL 2025 narratives, Rayudu also previewed Saturday’s anticipated clash between Punjab Kings (PBKS) and Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) at the historic Eden Gardens. Led by Shreyas Iyer, PBKS will face his former team KKR, where Iyer clinched the IPL title last season. Punjab previously stunned KKR by defending a modest 111 runs in New Chandigarh earlier this campaign. Rayudu predicted a fiery encounter, saying, ‘Shreyas will carry fond memories of Eden Gardens and KKR, but there’ll be fire in his belly after not being retained. Now captaining Punjab, he’ll be highly motivated. PBKS looks stronger this season and could be serious playoff contenders.’
As CSK fans brace for a tough road ahead, Rayudu’s insights offer a bittersweet perspective—while the present paints a grim picture, the future under MS Dhoni’s vision could herald a new era for the Yellow Brigade. With strategic planning and nurturing young talents like Brevis and Mhatre, can CSK rise from the ashes in IPL 2026? Only time will tell, but for now, the focus remains on learning from each defeat and evolving with the game.