The Kiwi opener, Devon Conway, scored an important half-century but stepped aside for Ravindra Jadeja with just two overs left in CSK’s big 220-run chase. So why did CSK take this unusual decision at such a key moment? Conway had held the innings together after early wickets and built a strong partnership with Shivam Dube. He reached his fifty and played a steady knock. But as the required run rate crossed 20 runs per over, CSK needed big hits in the death overs — something Conway wasn’t quite managing. So, they brought in Jadeja, hoping for quick boundaries.
Ruturaj Gaikwad Calls Jadeja Promotion a Tactical Call
In the end, CSK fell short by 18 runs as the target proved too high and the move to send in Jadeja didn’t change the result. However, after the match, CSK captain Ruturaj Gaikwad said it was a tactical decision made to boost the scoring rate in the final overs.
“I think the last four games are the only points of difference. It has been critical.The catches we have been dropping, the same batsman is scoring 15,20, 30 runs. Sometimes you have to appreciate it. Priyansh played well. High-risk batting and it came off well. We were getting wickets at regular intervals but they kept the momentum going. 10-15 runs lesser would have helped us.” Gaikwad said in the post-match presentation.
“But it comes down to dropped catches. It was spot-on in the batting perspective. Two of our best batters who play pace well went at the top of the order. They had a good powerplay.Lot of positives in the batting department. We were two three hits away today, Devon is more of a timer of a ball. Very useful at the top of the order. Jaddu, his role is completely different, You know the batsmen is struggling. We waited for him to time it and then changed when we thought it was necessary,” Gaikwad added.
“Just have some fun. I spoke ahead of the game that we have to enjoy the fielding. If you are nervous, you will drop a catch. If you look to be a standout fielder, save those two or three, get that run-out, it helps the team. Batting and bowling you can have bad days.” Gaikwad said.
In reply, CSK’s openers Rachin Ravindra and Devon Conway gave the team a solid start, putting up their best partnership of the IPL 2025 season with a 61-run stand. But their efforts weren’t enough. Rachin was out for 36, and soon after, captain Ruturaj Gaikwad also got out, leaving CSK at 62 for 2 a tough spot to recover from.
Conway played a steady knock, scoring 69 off 49 balls before the team decided to retire him for a late push. Ravindra Jadeja came in and added 9 off 5 balls, while MS Dhoni kept hopes alive with a quick 27 from 12. But Punjab Kings stayed calm under pressure and finished with a comfortable win.
CSK will next face Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) on April 11 at their fortress, Chepauk Stadium. After that, they will take on Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) on April 14 at the Ekana Cricket Stadium in a crucial encounter.
ALSO READ: IPL 2025 Points Table: Updated Team Ranking, Standings, and Net Run Rate After CSK vs PBKS
