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Chennai Super Kings on the brink of IPL 2025 exit after loss-heavy run, Harbhajan Singh rules out playoff chances

Harbhajan Singh rules out CSK’s chances for IPL 2025 playoffs as the Dhoni-led side faces Punjab Kings in a must-win encounter at Chepauk.

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Chennai Super Kings,

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.

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India coach reacts to Vaibhav Sooryavanshi altercation, calls for better on-field conduct

India spin-bowling coach Sairaj Bahutule has commented on the post-match confrontation involving Vaibhav Sooryavanshi and a Sri Lanka A player, urging better on-field behaviour from both sides.

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India spin-bowling coach Sairaj Bahutule has weighed in on the controversy involving young batter Vaibhav Sooryavanshi following India A’s dramatic Super Over defeat to Sri Lanka A in the ongoing Tri-Nation Series.

The incident occurred after the match in Dambulla, where tempers flared between Sooryavanshi and Sri Lanka A cricketer Vishen Halambage. Reports indicated that comments were directed at the Indian batters as they headed back towards the dressing room after the game, leading to a heated exchange.

Video footage from the aftermath showed Sooryavanshi confronting Halambage before the two players briefly came into physical contact. Other Sri Lanka A players intervened and prevented the situation from escalating further.

Speaking about the matter, Bahutule described the episode as unfortunate and stressed that such situations can be avoided with greater discipline on the field. He expressed confidence that coaching staff from both teams would ensure similar incidents do not recur.

The coach also suggested that players on both sides should be educated about appropriate conduct during high-pressure matches, highlighting the importance of maintaining respect and sportsmanship even in intense competitive situations.

The altercation has sparked debate among cricket followers, with differing opinions emerging over the actions of the players involved. The incident came at the end of a tense contest that saw Sri Lanka A defeat India A in a Super Over after a closely fought encounter.

The young Sooryavanshi, regarded as one of India’s most promising batting talents, has attracted significant attention in recent months. However, the focus after the Dambulla match shifted from cricketing performances to player behaviour, prompting reactions from officials and coaches.

With the tournament continuing, attention is expected to return to on-field performances as both teams look ahead to their remaining fixtures.

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Vaibhav Sooryavanshi’s India call-up hailed as a game changer by BCCI

BCCI has hailed Vaibhav Sooryavanshi’s selection in the Indian team as a significant moment for Indian cricket, rewarding the teenager’s outstanding performances in IPL 2026.

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The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has welcomed the selection of teenage batting sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi in the Indian team, describing his rapid rise as a major positive development for the future of Indian cricket.

The 15-year-old earned his maiden senior national team call-up after a stunning IPL 2026 campaign that established him as one of the country’s most exciting young talents. His fearless batting and consistent performances throughout the tournament caught the attention of selectors and cricket experts alike.

BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia praised the youngster’s achievements, noting that exceptional performances are always rewarded. He highlighted that Sooryavanshi’s progress reflects the strength of India’s cricket development system and the opportunities available to emerging players.

Sooryavanshi’s selection comes after a season in which he produced remarkable numbers with the bat and played a crucial role for his franchise. His ability to handle pressure situations and score at a brisk pace made him one of the standout performers of the tournament.

The teenager’s inclusion in the national squad is being viewed as an important step in India’s efforts to build a strong pool of young talent for the future. Cricket observers believe the experience of being part of the senior setup will aid his development and help him adapt to the demands of international cricket.

His rise has generated significant excitement among fans, many of whom have followed his journey from age-group cricket to the IPL and now to the national team. The selection also underlines the growing trend of young players making a rapid transition to the highest level based on outstanding performances in domestic and franchise cricket.

With expectations high, Sooryavanshi will now look to make the most of the opportunity and continue the form that earned him recognition at the national level.

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BCCI plans T20I leadership reset, Shreyas Iyer tipped for captaincy

India’s T20 team could be set for a leadership change, with reports linking Shreyas Iyer to the captaincy role and Tilak Varma to a larger responsibility.

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Suryakumar Yadav

India’s T20I setup could be heading towards a significant transition, with reports suggesting that the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is considering a change in leadership ahead of upcoming international assignments. Shreyas Iyer has reportedly emerged as the leading candidate to take over the captaincy, while current skipper Suryakumar Yadav’s position in the squad is under scrutiny.

The reported move comes despite India’s successful T20 World Cup campaign under Suryakumar’s leadership. However, selectors are believed to be evaluating long-term plans and future leadership options as the team begins preparations for upcoming global events.

Shreyas Iyer emerges as leading candidate

According to reports, the selectors have identified Shreyas Iyer as a strong contender to guide India’s T20 side in the next phase. The middle-order batter has impressed with his leadership credentials in domestic and franchise cricket and is viewed as a dependable option for the future.

The proposed change is reportedly aimed at building a leadership group capable of carrying India through the next T20 World Cup cycle and other major tournaments.

Tilak Varma in line for bigger role

Young batter Tilak Varma is also understood to be part of the board’s long-term plans. Reports indicate that he is being considered for a senior leadership position, including the possibility of serving as vice-captain in the shortest format.

The management is believed to be keen on nurturing a younger core that can provide continuity over the coming years.

Uncertainty over Suryakumar Yadav’s place

While no official announcement has been made, reports suggest that Suryakumar Yadav could face a difficult period in the national setup. His recent batting performances have reportedly become a point of discussion among selectors despite his contributions as captain.

The uncertainty has intensified following recent squad-related developments, sparking speculation about his future role in India’s T20 plans.

Official confirmation awaited

As of now, the BCCI has not issued any formal statement regarding a captaincy change or squad decisions. The final call is expected to become clear when India’s squad for upcoming T20 assignments is announced.

Until then, the reports remain part of ongoing speculation surrounding India’s evolving T20 strategy and leadership structure.

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