CSK's Playoff Hopes Crushed, Pathan Raises Leadership Concerns

Chennai Super Kings' (CSK) rollercoaster ride in IPL 2024 has taken a disappointing turn, with their playoff hopes dashed after a crucial loss to Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB). Despite a promising start, CSK's campaign has been marred by injuries, a new captain, and the absence of their legendary leader, MS Dhoni.

Former India all-rounder Irfan Pathan has expressed concerns over CSK's leadership, suggesting that Ruturaj Gaikwad's captaincy could face a similar fate to Ravindra Jadeja's in 2022. Pathan emphasized the team's pedigree in winning crucial moments but highlighted their current struggles.

"CSK has a lot of issues at the moment," Pathan said. "Injury issues, new captain, Mahendra Singh Dhoni is no longer leading them. You might have seen him occasionally setting the field, but he is not the captain. You might have remembered what happened when [Ravindra] Jadeja led the side and it didn't end well, the same can happen again."

Pathan also weighed in on Dhoni's future in the IPL, speculating that the CSK vs RCB match could be his last. However, he acknowledged that it remains uncertain.

Ahead of the match, Pathan had predicted an advantage for RCB, which proved accurate as they emerged victorious by 27 runs. He emphasized the importance of momentum in the tournament.

"Nothing is easy. It's not going to be easy for both teams. RCB has the momentum, a solid momentum. And if they win as there is no more dangerous side than the one in strong momentum," Pathan concluded.

Tags: #CSK, #IPL2024, #RuturajGaikwad, #IrfanPathan, #RavindraJadeja