Chennai Super Kings (CSK) broke their five-match losing streak with a spirited performance against Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) in the IPL 2025. The much-needed win not only lifted CSK’s position in the points table but also rejuvenated the squad, especially after a series of inconsistent outings. One of the key figures in this dramatic turnaround, Shivam Dube, did not hold back after the match. He voiced what many fans had been feeling, saying, “That is not CSK,” while referring to the team’s earlier poor form. His emotional outburst resonated with the Yellow Army and reaffirmed the team’s fighting spirit.
A Night to Remember
CSK came into this match under immense pressure. Their loyal fanbase had grown restless, and pundits questioned their strategy, especially with young Ruturaj Gaikwad leading the side. Injuries, tactical misfires, and underwhelming performances plagued CSK’s journey in IPL 2025. However, the match against LSG turned out to be a turning point.
MS Dhoni returned to lead the squad after Gaikwad’s injury. The decision reignited belief within the squad and among fans. Dhoni’s return infused clarity and stability, and the team responded with grit and intent.
CSK batted first and set a competitive total of 183/6 on a challenging wicket. Ruturaj Gaikwad’s absence placed more responsibility on the middle order, and Shivam Dube stepped up. He played a blazing knock of 61 off 34 balls, attacking LSG’s spinners and seamers with calculated aggression.
Dube’s power-hitting changed the game’s momentum. He timed his shots well and rotated the strike efficiently when boundaries didn’t come. His knock featured four sixes and five boundaries, reminding everyone why CSK backed him persistently through earlier failures.
Bowling Unit Rises to the Occasion
CSK’s bowlers sealed the game in the second innings. Deepak Chahar struck early, removing KL Rahul in the second over. Maheesh Theekshana and Moeen Ali then tightened the screws in the middle overs. They used variations and smart field placements to strangle LSG’s scoring rate. Moeen picked up two wickets, including the dangerous Marcus Stoinis, who threatened to take the game away with a quick cameo.
Matheesha Pathirana, with his unorthodox action, bowled a match-defining 18th over. He conceded just six runs and dismissed Nicholas Pooran with a pinpoint yorker. That moment effectively closed the door on LSG. CSK closed the innings with a 16-run win, celebrating not just a victory but a shift in momentum.
Shivam Dube’s Passionate Post-Match Statement
After receiving the Player of the Match award, Shivam Dube did not speak like someone satisfied with just one good performance. He addressed the elephant in the room—the losing streak and the disjointed performances.
“That is not CSK,” he said, with conviction. “We do not play like that. We fight, we scrap, we win moments. Today we showed who we are. This is just the start.”
Dube’s words struck a chord with fans and critics alike. For a franchise that built its legacy on consistency, calmness, and collective effort, the slump felt unnatural. Dube’s statement reasserted CSK’s identity—one that revolves around resilience, pride, and unwavering belief.
MS Dhoni’s Tactical Brilliance
Dhoni’s captaincy played a crucial role in this turnaround. He read the wicket perfectly and opted to bat first, anticipating that the pitch would slow down in the second innings. His bowling changes worked flawlessly, especially his decision to hold Moeen Ali back until the ninth over. That move paid off, as Moeen dismissed Devdutt Padikkal immediately and turned the pressure on LSG.
Field placements, too, stood out. Dhoni placed a straight long-on for Pooran and got the catch within two deliveries. He rotated his bowlers masterfully and ensured that no one bowled back-to-back overs without strategic breaks.
Off the field, his calm presence restored composure to a side reeling from internal chaos and external scrutiny. The players responded by expressing themselves freely and trusting each other on the field.
Tactical Changes and Playing XI Adjustments
CSK shuffled their lineup and reaped rewards. Ben Stokes, who missed the last two matches, returned and bowled his full quota for the first time in the tournament. His economy rate hovered under 7.5, and he provided a crucial breakthrough by dismissing Krunal Pandya.
Ajinkya Rahane came in at number three instead of his usual opening slot. That move allowed the team to solidify the middle order and gave more time for the top-order batters to settle in.
CSK’s think tank did not rely solely on instinct; they prepared for this match meticulously. They analyzed LSG’s bowling patterns and altered their batting approach accordingly. Dube and Moeen targeted Ravi Bishnoi early and forced him to bowl defensively.
Fan Reactions and Social Media Buzz
Shivam Dube’s “That is not CSK” line exploded on social media. Fans turned it into a rallying cry, creating memes, videos, and artwork celebrating the team’s return to form. Former players also chimed in, praising Dube’s passion and leadership potential.
Suresh Raina tweeted, “CSK is back! Loved Dube’s fire. That’s the spirit we built this franchise on.”
The Chepauk crowd, often referred to as the “12th man,” played a crucial role throughout the game. Their chants, cheers, and unflinching support created an electric atmosphere. After the win, fans stayed back for over 30 minutes, singing the CSK anthem and waving flags.
What This Win Means for CSK
This win does not guarantee a playoff berth, but it provides hope and momentum. More importantly, it restores CSK’s character and belief. The players looked united, the captain looked in control, and the fans saw a glimpse of the side they have loved for over a decade.
The upcoming fixtures will test CSK further. They will face table-toppers Rajasthan Royals next, followed by tough matches against Kolkata Knight Riders and Gujarat Titans. If CSK can carry this confidence forward, they can reignite their campaign and push for a top-four finish.
Conclusion
CSK’s win over LSG stands out not just because it ended a losing streak, but because it marked the return of belief, energy, and identity. Shivam Dube’s post-match statement reflected more than just emotion—it represented the collective frustration, pride, and fighting spirit of a franchise built on legacy.
Under MS Dhoni’s calm but calculated leadership, CSK showed that they still have the firepower and mindset to compete at the highest level. And with players like Dube stepping up and taking ownership, the team looks poised for a spirited second half of the season.
“That is not CSK,” Dube said. And on this night, they proved it.
