Five-time champions Chennai Super Kings have entered unfamiliar territory after failing to qualify for the playoffs for the third consecutive season. Once regarded as one of the most consistent top-four teams, their recent decline has been sharp and concerning.
Despite a fluctuating campaign, CSK remained mathematically in contention until their final league match against Gujarat Titans. They needed a win to keep their slim playoff hopes alive but instead suffered the heaviest defeat in their IPL history, an 89-run loss in Ahmedabad. The result not only knocked them out but also reflected their season overall: weak bowling, inconsistent batting, and a lack of stability in the lineup.
