IPL 2025: Stephen Fleming Reveals Why CSK Lost To RR In Guwahati

In a high-intensity match at the Barsapara Cricket Stadium in Guwahati, Rajasthan Royals (RR) emerged victorious against Chennai Super Kings (CSK) by a slender margin of six runs in their IPL 2025 encounter. This closely fought battle marked a crucial moment in the tournament for both franchises—RR, determined to open their account in the season, and CSK, desperate to bounce back after a lackluster start.

Despite a valiant effort from CSK’s batting lineup, Rajasthan Royals showcased resilience, proving why they remain a formidable force in the IPL. The match, filled with dramatic twists, stellar performances, and tactical masterstrokes, left fans on the edge of their seats. Let’s take a deep dive into how RR managed to hold their nerve against the five-time champions.

Match Summary: A Tale of Two Powerplays

RR’s Explosive Start Sets the Tone

After winning the toss, CSK skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad opted to bowl first, hoping to exploit early conditions and restrict RR to a chaseable total. However, Rajasthan Royals came out with an aggressive mindset, determined to capitalize on the powerplay.

The charge was led by Nitish Rana, who played a blistering knock of 81 runs off just 36 balls. His innings was laced with powerful strokes, punishing CSK’s bowlers with an array of elegant cover drives, audacious pull shots, and lofted sixes. Partnering with RR’s stand-in skipper Riyan Parag, who contributed a vital 37 off 28 balls, the duo ensured Rajasthan made full use of the fielding restrictions.

At the end of the powerplay, RR had already accumulated 79 runs, losing just one wicket. This aggressive intent provided them with a strong foundation, despite CSK making a strong comeback in the middle overs with crucial breakthroughs.

CSK’s bowling unit, led by Deepak Chahar and Mustafizur Rahman, managed to curb RR’s momentum, chipping away with timely dismissals. Ravindra Jadeja, ever-reliable with the ball, bowled an economical spell while also picking up two wickets. However, RR’s total of 182/9 remained a daunting challenge for Chennai’s batting lineup.

CSK’s Chase Falters Despite Ruturaj Gaikwad’s Effort

Chasing 183, Chennai Super Kings found themselves in early trouble as opener Rachin Ravindra was dismissed for a golden duck, courtesy of a fiery delivery from Jofra Archer. This early setback hampered CSK’s momentum, and their powerplay performance turned out to be the defining difference in the match.

While RR had raced to 79/1 in their first six overs, CSK only managed 42/1, with Gaikwad struggling to find the gaps. This sluggish start put them under immense pressure, forcing the middle-order batters to play high-risk shots to catch up with the required run rate.

Gaikwad, anchoring the innings, fought hard and formed crucial partnerships with the likes of Shivam Dube and MS Dhoni. However, the increasing run-rate pressure forced CSK into errors, leading to wickets falling at crucial junctures.

Despite Ravindra Jadeja’s late fireworks (32 off 22 balls), CSK ultimately fell short, finishing at 176/6—a heartbreaking six-run defeat for the Chennai-based franchise.

Post-Match Analysis: What Went Wrong for CSK?

Head Coach Stephen Fleming’s Assessment

After the loss, CSK head coach Stephen Fleming pinpointed the key reasons behind the team’s downfall. According to him, CSK’s poor powerplay performance—both while bowling and batting—was the biggest factor in their defeat.

“If you analyze the game, it’s probably the two powerplays (which made the difference),” Fleming remarked in the post-match interview.

“Our powerplay with the ball went for the best part of 80 runs, and we were only able to manage mid-40s or early-40s. That’s on the scoreboard the big difference, and we were also sloppy in the field compared to Rajasthan, who were outstanding.”

1. Bowling Struggles in the Powerplay

CSK’s inability to contain RR’s batters in the powerplay proved costly. Their seamers, particularly Deepak Chahar and Tushar Deshpande, struggled with their lengths, allowing Nitish Rana and Yashasvi Jaiswal to capitalize. The Royals smashed 11 boundaries and three sixes in the first six overs alone, leaving CSK in desperate need of wickets.

While Mustafizur Rahman pulled things back slightly in the middle overs, the early onslaught had already inflicted significant damage. The absence of early breakthroughs allowed RR to dictate terms, making life difficult for CSK’s bowling unit.

2. Batting Collapse in the First Six Overs

On the batting front, CSK’s approach in the powerplay lacked the urgency needed to match RR’s dominance.

Rachin Ravindra’s dismissal for a golden duck meant that CSK’s top order was immediately under pressure.
Ruturaj Gaikwad, despite scoring a steady 41 off 34 balls, played too cautiously at the start, which led to an increased asking rate.
Shivam Dube and MS Dhoni tried to accelerate, but the early momentum loss meant they had too much ground to cover.

Key Takeaways from the Match

Rajasthan Royals’ Strengths

✅ Nitish Rana’s Stellar Knock: His aggressive approach gave RR a head start, proving how vital an in-form top order is in T20 cricket.
✅ Bowling Discipline in Death Overs: RR’s bowlers, led by Jofra Archer and Trent Boult, held their nerve in the final overs despite Jadeja’s counterattack.
✅ Captaincy Brilliance by Riyan Parag: The young leader made astute tactical decisions, using his bowlers wisely and setting attacking fields when required.

Chennai Super Kings’ Weaknesses

❌ Lack of Intent in Powerplay: Failing to match RR’s powerplay exploits left CSK playing catch-up throughout the innings.
❌ Fielding Lapses: Dropped catches and misfields proved costly, as RR capitalized on these extra opportunities.
❌ Failure to Contain Nitish Rana Early: Once Rana got going, it became incredibly difficult to stop him, which tilted the match in RR’s favor.

Looking Ahead: What’s Next for Both Teams?

Rajasthan Royals’ Road Ahead

With their first win of IPL 2025 secured, RR will look to build momentum and refine their strategies. Their batting depth and solid bowling unit make them a strong contender, but consistency will be key as they progress in the tournament.

Chennai Super Kings’ Road Ahead

CSK will need to quickly regroup and address their powerplay issues. The return of Devon Conway (if fit) or a shuffle in their batting order could help bring more intent at the top. Additionally, their bowlers will need to be more disciplined, especially against aggressive batting lineups.

Final Thoughts

The Rajasthan Royals vs. Chennai Super Kings clash in IPL 2025 was a testament to the thrilling unpredictability of T20 cricket. While RR walked away with a well-earned victory, CSK’s near-comeback ensured that fans were treated to an enthralling contest.

With plenty of matches left in the season, expect more twists and turns as the teams continue their journey toward IPL glory.

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