The Chennai Super Kings (CSK) are in deep trouble after losing six of their first eight matches in IPL 2025. The five-time champions are now struggling at the bottom of the points table with just four points. After a humiliating defeat against Mumbai Indians, fans are asking — can CSK still qualify for playoffs this season?
Their recent defeat to Mumbai Indians by 9 wickets at the Wankhede Stadium has only made things worse. While mathematically still possible, CSK now faces a steep uphill climb, needing to win all of their remaining 6 matches and improve their Net Run Rate drastically to stay alive in the playoff race.
Can CSK still qualify for playoffs after 6 defeats in IPL 2025?
Chennai Super Kings’ IPL 2025 campaign has taken a serious hit, with just 4 points from 8 matches after a crushing 9-wicket defeat against Mumbai Indians. The big question now is — can CSK still qualify for playoffs? The answer depends on a lot of factors, but the door isn’t shut yet. With 6 league matches still remaining, CSK can reach a maximum of 16 points, which historically has been enough to make the cut. In fact, back in IPL 2022, Bengaluru had qualified with just 14 points, thanks to a strong Net Run Rate. So yes, CSK still has a mathematical chance — but only if they win all upcoming games and by big margins.

The road, however, won’t be easy. CSK’s Net Run Rate is currently in the negative, which means just winning might not be enough — winning big is a must. MS Dhoni’s side will have to fix their powerplay woes first. The lack of aggression upfront, both in batting and bowling, has hurt them repeatedly this season. If they fail to dominate early in matches, the comeback becomes harder. Also, looking at the fixtures ahead, CSK still has to face teams in red-hot form. Can CSK still qualify for playoffs after 6 losses? Technically yes, but it will take consistent performances, sharp intent, and a little bit of Dhoni magic to turn the tide.
What are CSK’s remaining matches in IPL 2025?
After a disappointing loss to Mumbai Indians, Chennai Super Kings (CSK) now find themselves at the bottom of the IPL 2025 points table with just 4 points from 8 matches. To keep their playoff hopes alive, they must win all their remaining fixtures. Here’s the schedule for their upcoming matches:
- April 25: vs Sunrisers Hyderabad – M.A. Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai
- April 30: vs Punjab Kings – M.A. Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai
- May 3: vs Royal Challengers Bengaluru – M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru
- May 7: vs Kolkata Knight Riders – Eden Gardens, Kolkata
- May 12: vs Rajasthan Royals – M.A. Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai
- May 18: vs Gujarat Titans – Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad
These matches are crucial for CSK’s playoff aspirations. Winning all six would take them to 16 points, a total that has historically been sufficient for playoff qualification. However, given their current Net Run Rate (NRR) of -1.392—the lowest among all teams—they’ll need to secure convincing victories to improve their NRR significantly
The path ahead is challenging, but with strategic gameplay and consistent performances, CSK can still turn their season around.
What Does CSK Need to Qualify for IPL 2025 Playoffs?
After a challenging start to the season, Chennai Super Kings (CSK) find themselves in a must-win situation to keep their playoff hopes alive in IPL 2025. Here’s what CSK needs to do:
Win All Remaining Matches
CSK must secure victories in all their remaining fixtures to reach a total of 16 points, a tally that has historically been sufficient for playoff qualification.
Improve Net Run Rate (NRR)
CSK’s current Net Run Rate (NRR) is -1.392, the lowest among all teams. To enhance their playoff chances, they need to not only win but do so convincingly to boost their NRR. This is crucial, especially if multiple teams end up with the same number of points.
Monitor Other Teams’ Performances
CSK’s qualification also depends on the outcomes of other teams’ matches. They need teams like Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH), Delhi Capitals (DC), mumbai Indian (MI) ,and Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) to lose some of their upcoming games. This would reduce competition for the playoff spots and improve CSK’s chances.
Can MS Dhoni’s Leadership Turn Things Around for CSK?
After a challenging start to the season, Chennai Super Kings (CSK) find themselves in a must-win situation to keep their playoff hopes alive in IPL 2025. MS Dhoni’s leadership has been a cornerstone of CSK’s strategy, and his influence remains pivotal.
Ms dhoni Tactical Brilliance and Experience
MS Dhoni’s unparalleled understanding of the game allows him to make strategic decisions that can change the course of a match. His ability to read the game and make timely interventions has been instrumental in CSK’s past successes. As fans ponder, “Will CSK qualify for playoffs?”, Dhoni’s tactical acumen becomes even more crucial.
Mentorship and Team Morale
Beyond his on-field contributions, Dhoni’s role as a mentor boosts team morale. Young players benefit from his guidance, and his calm demeanor under pressure sets the tone for the entire squad. This leadership quality is vital as CSK strives to secure a playoff spot.
Impact Player Role
In IPL 2025, Dhoni has adapted to a more flexible role, often coming in as an impact player. This approach allows him to conserve energy while still delivering crucial performances when the team needs them most. Such strategic utilization of Dhoni’s skills could be the key to answering the question, “Will CSK qualify for playoffs?”With Dhoni’s leadership, CSK aims to navigate the remainder of the season with strategic precision and renewed vigor.
Final thought – can CSK still qualify for playoffs IPL 2025?
The road ahead for CSK is tough, but not impossible. With MS Dhoni’s leadership, consistent performances, and a little bit of magic, the Yellow Army can still bounce back. So,
what do you think?
Will CSK qualify for playoffs in IPL 2025? Drop your thoughts in the comments below – let’s cheer for our Thala and the team together