Manoj Tiwary, former cricketer and veteran of Indian domestic cricket, launched a scathing critique of Chennai Super Kings (CSK) spinner Ravichandran Ashwin and CSK captain MS Dhoni after their perplexing strategy in defending a meager target of 104 runs against Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) on Friday. CSK’s defeat on their home ground at Chepauk, where they could only manage 103/9, their lowest-ever score at the venue, was a major talking point, especially as the opposition chased down the target in just 10.1 overs. However, it was Ashwin’s tactics against KKR’s explosive opener Sunil Narine that caught the most attention, with Tiwary being especially vocal in his criticism.

The Chepauk Thriller

CSK’s performance in the match was disappointing on multiple fronts, with their batting faltering badly on a surface that seemed challenging, particularly for the CSK batters. Despite the pitch offering some assistance to bowlers, none of CSK’s top-order batsmen managed to build any meaningful partnerships. Narine, on the other hand, turned the game on its head with a blistering 44-run knock off just 18 balls. His aggressive stroke play included three sixes and a four, making the chase seem almost too easy on a tricky Chepauk pitch. The KKR opener’s confidence was evident, and he seemed in complete control of the proceedings, even as CSK’s bowlers struggled to find their rhythm.

Ashwin, who was bought for a significant INR 9.75 crore during the mega auction, was expected to play a crucial role in CSK’s bowling attack, especially in such conditions. However, his strategy against Narine left a lot to be desired. Ashwin, who has been known for his clever variations, bowled in a manner that allowed Narine to flourish. The left-handed Narine had no trouble dispatching Ashwin’s deliveries, particularly when he bowled over the stumps, which allowed Narine to free his arms and attack without much restraint. The decision to bowl over the stumps instead of the usual round-the-wicket line, which had worked against left-handers previously, was called into question by Tiwary.

Manoj Tiwary’s Criticism of Ashwin and Dhoni

Tiwary, known for his frank and outspoken opinions, did not mince words when discussing the performance of both Ashwin and Dhoni during the match. Speaking to Cricbuzz, he criticized Ashwin for not adhering to basic tactical principles when bowling to Narine. He questioned why the bowler deviated from his usual strategy, noting that Narine had made batting look effortless partly due to Ashwin’s poor planning.

“Why do they not go to the drawing board early? I think it is obvious that you reassess after a loss. But some things that are taking place are beyond my understanding,” Tiwary said. “Like, when Ashwin was bowling today, earlier to all the left-handers, he bowled round the stumps, but today he bowled over the stumps. It became very easy for Sunil Narine. These small things… when you have such an experienced player and wicketkeeper like MS Dhoni, have their brains stopped working?”

Tiwary’s frustration was evident as he pointed out that Dhoni, as a seasoned wicketkeeper and tactician, should have stepped in to guide Ashwin. According to Tiwary, Dhoni’s decision not to intervene and provide tactical input from behind the stumps, especially in such a critical situation, was puzzling. The veteran cricketer, who has played alongside Dhoni at Rising Pune Supergiants (RPSG), suggested that CSK’s leadership and strategic planning appeared disjointed.

KKR’s Dominant Chase

KKR’s chase of the 104-run target was clinical, and it highlighted the massive difference in approach and execution between the two teams. Narine’s aggressive batting made the target seem insignificant as he took on Ashwin’s bowling and found the boundary with ease. His 44 runs off just 18 balls included two fours and five sixes, propelling KKR towards the target with minimal effort.

Captain Ajinkya Rahane also contributed with an unbeaten 20 off 17 balls, anchoring the chase alongside Narine. Quinton de Kock, the other opener, made a valuable contribution with 23 runs, while Rinku Singh remained not out on 15, guiding KKR across the line in just over 10 overs. The chase was completed without any major hiccups, with KKR winning the match comfortably and leaving CSK to rue their poor performance.

CSK’s Deteriorating Form

This loss marked CSK’s fifth consecutive defeat, a worrying trend that has made their playoff chances extremely slim. Tiwary expressed concern about the team’s overall approach and highlighted several areas where CSK needed to make adjustments. “From hereon, CSK’s cart is going to go downhill. It seemed like that from the last three-four matches. You see the shot selection of the players, after playing for 20-25 years, you get to realize what can happen,” he said, pointing out the lack of effective planning and execution in both batting and bowling departments.

One of the most glaring concerns raised by Tiwary was the underutilization of CSK’s Purple Cap winner, Noor Ahmad. The Afghan spinner, who had been in impressive form, was introduced to bowl only in the eighth over of the match, despite being the leading wicket-taker for the side. Tiwary questioned the decision, highlighting that Noor had proven his worth with the ball but was being kept on the sidelines for far too long. “Your Purple Cap winner is Noor Ahmad, but when did he come to bowl? In the 8th over. And in the first ball itself, he scalped the wicket of Sunil Narine,” Tiwary pointed out, emphasizing how a simple change in strategy could have altered the course of the game.

The Road Ahead for CSK

With their playoff hopes hanging by a thread, CSK needs to reassess their tactics and approach going forward. The issues in both batting and bowling have been apparent for a while now, and Tiwary’s criticism highlights the urgent need for a rethink. The lack of coordination between senior players, including Ashwin and Dhoni, and the questionable strategic decisions made during the match against KKR, have raised questions about the leadership and planning within the team.

As the IPL season progresses, CSK will need to make bold decisions if they are to avoid an early exit from the tournament. The team’s struggles with both form and strategy will need to be addressed quickly, or they may find themselves sliding further down the table.