CSK vs KKR: Ajinkya Rahane Copies Gambhir’s Tactic, Sets Test Field for MS Dhoni

The 25th match of the IPL 2025 saw Chennai Super Kings facing Kolkata Knight Riders at the MA Chidambaram Stadium. But instead of finding a fresh start, CSK’s troubles deepened. After four straight losses, they again failed to deliver with the bat and collapsed badly against Kolkata’s bowling attack.

Once again, the CSK batting order failed. Wickets kept falling quickly, and they were struggling at 75 for 8 when MS Dhoni walked in to bat. Surprisingly, Dhoni came at number 9, a rare sight for fans. With his arrival, Kolkata Knight Riders made an interesting move, similar to something done years ago.

KKR’s spinner Varun Chakravarthy, looking to stop Dhoni early, called for a short-leg fielder. Captain Ajinkya Rahane immediately accepted the suggestion, setting a field that looked more like a Test match.

It reminded everyone of a similar moment back in 2016. At that time, former KKR captain Gautam Gambhir had used an ultra-aggressive field against Dhoni, placing two slips, a silly point, and a short-leg as soon as he came to bat.

That old tactic seemed to have returned in 2025. Varun Chakravarthy bowled with tight lines, and the attacking field was in place to put pressure on Dhoni right from the start. And it worked. Dhoni couldn’t make an impact and was dismissed after scoring just 1 run from 4 balls.

Chennai Super Kings could only manage 103 runs in their 20 overs – their lowest total ever at Chepauk. With this performance, they are now close to suffering their fifth straight defeat in the tournament.