The Chennai Super Kings (CSK), once a dominant force in the Indian Premier League (IPL), face near-certain elimination from the IPL 2025 playoffs. A combination of strategic missteps at the auction, injuries to key players including their captain, and the waning form of icon MS Dhoni has led to a dismal season, leaving the team with little hope of recovery despite theoretical chances for all teams.

With just two wins from nine matches, CSK is staring at a potential last-place finish, a stark contrast to their storied history. Dhoni, the team’s talismanic leader, has signaled a focus on rebuilding for 2026, stating his intent to “secure a strong XI and return stronger.” However, Australian cricket legend Adam Gilchrist believes Dhoni, now 43, should retire from the IPL to pave the way for younger talent.

Speaking on Cricbuzz, Gilchrist expressed admiration but urged Dhoni to step aside: “MS has nothing left to prove. He’s a champion, an icon, but for the team’s future, he may not need to be there next year. I say this with love.”

CSK’s struggles this season follow a trophyless 2024, where they narrowly missed the playoffs despite Dhoni’s return with his trademark long hair and aggressive batting. The 2023 season, where Dhoni led CSK to a record-equaling fifth IPL title against Gujarat Titans in a rain-extended final, would have been an ideal farewell.

Many expected him to retire after matching Mumbai Indians’ championship tally, but Dhoni chose to play on, citing his desire to perform for Chennai fans one more time. “Retirement would be ideal, but I owe it to the fans to play another season,” he said then.

This year, however, Dhoni’s performance has been hampered by persistent knee issues, limiting his mobility and forcing him to bat lower at No. 7 or 9. With only 140 runs this season, his struggles have been evident. Coach Stephen Fleming noted that Dhoni’s knee problems restrict his running, impacting his role. Some fans argue that Dhoni’s prolonged IPL stint risks tarnishing his legacy, a sentiment echoed by Gilchrist, who fears further decline could overshadow his achievements.

As CSK grapples with its worst campaign in years, the debate over Dhoni’s future intensifies. While his leadership remains invaluable, the team’s dismal run and his physical limitations suggest a tough road ahead, leaving fans and analysts divided on whether the beloved ‘Thala’ should return for another season.

Gold and silver purchases witnessed a vibrant start across India on the occasion of Akshaya Tritiya, with festive enthusiasm overcoming the deterrent of high prices. The All India Gem and Jewellery Domestic Council (GJC) has projected a 35% rise in value terms for gold sales compared to last year, even though prices are significantly higher.

Regional footfall and demand trends

Retail activity gained early momentum in southern states, as consumers flocked to jewellery stores in the first half of the day. In contrast, northern regions and Maharashtra are expected to see increased activity later, as extreme heat delayed consumer turnout during morning hours.

Gold prices hovered between ₹99,500 and ₹99,900 per 10 grams in various regions — a sharp 37.6% jump from the previous year’s Akshaya Tritiya rate of ₹72,300. Despite the surge, shoppers re-entered the market, reassured by recent price stabilization.

Changing buyer profiles and strategies

GJC Chairman Rajesh Rokde noted that the tradition of buying gold on Akshaya Tritiya, once dominant in the south, is now gaining traction nationwide. “Even younger consumers aged 25 to 40 are actively buying gold and silver,” he said, emphasizing a growing trend among millennial buyers.

Consumers are purchasing a mix of jewellery, coins, and bullion based on their budget and need. A significant portion of buyers are managing high prices through old gold exchanges — accounting for nearly 50% of all transactions, according to PNG Jewellers Chairman Saurabh Gadgil.

“Volume growth may be marginally down by 8–9%, but in value terms, we’re seeing an increase of 20–25%,” Gadgil explained, underlining the resilience of the jewellery market.

Market adapts with innovation

Studded jewellery is reportedly gaining popularity, especially in urban centers, while lab-grown diamonds are carving a niche among new-age buyers, according to industry executives from GSI India and Aukera.

The All India Jewellers and Goldsmith Federation estimated around 12 tonnes of gold sales, worth approximately ₹12,000 crore, and 400 tonnes of silver, valued at ₹4,000 crore — totalling a massive ₹16,000 crore in expected festive turnover.

Long-term demand remains robust

Despite frequent price hikes over the past three years, India’s gold appetite has remained steady. The country continues to import between 700 and 800 tonnes annually, underscoring its status as the world’s largest gold consumer.

As the Indian Premier League 2025 enters its crucial phase, Chennai Super Kings (CSK) face a do-or-die situation in Match 49 against Punjab Kings (PBKS) at Chepauk. With just two wins in their nine games, CSK’s playoff hopes are hanging by a thread—so much so that former India cricketer Harbhajan Singh has completely written them off.

Punjab opt to bowl as Chennai stare at elimination

In a high-stakes encounter, Punjab Kings skipper Shreyas Iyer won the toss and elected to bowl first, likely banking on the spin-friendly conditions of the Chennai pitch. The surface, previously used in the tournament, is notably dry with cracks and no grass cover. Former players Graeme Swann and Aaron Finch highlighted that spinners could dominate as the ball gets older, putting the onus on batters to make the most of the powerplay and early overs.

CSK’s poor form raises serious concerns

CSK, historically one of the most consistent teams in the IPL, has endured a forgettable season so far. With seven defeats from nine matches, the team finds itself near the bottom of the table. Each game from this point is a must-win for the five-time champions, yet the road ahead appears increasingly steep.

The IPL 2025 playoff predictor put CSK’s qualification chances at a marginal 0.24 per cent. However, Harbhajan Singh, speaking on the tournament’s official broadcast, minced no words and stated, “CSK have 0.00 per cent chance of making the playoffs.” Having once donned the yellow jersey himself, the veteran spinner’s assessment speaks volumes about the side’s current struggles.

Punjab Kings in playoff contention

Meanwhile, Punjab Kings continue to push their case for a playoff berth. With five wins from nine games, a victory over CSK tonight could propel them into the top two on the points table. This game, therefore, carries contrasting implications for the two sides—survival for Chennai, and elevation for Punjab.

Dhoni nears T20 landmark

In what could be a rare silver lining for CSK fans, captain MS Dhoni is on the verge of achieving another personal milestone. The veteran wicketkeeper-batter needs just four more sixes to reach the 350-mark in T20s. Among Indians, only Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, and Suryakumar Yadav have surpassed this landmark. Globally, West Indies legend Chris Gayle continues to lead the six-hitting charts.

As CSK step out under pressure at Chepauk, fans will hope for a Dhoni special and a miracle comeback, even as the odds—and opinions—remain heavily stacked against them.