SRH Break CSK’s Fortress Chepauk in Low-Scoring Clash

The 43rd match of IPL 2025 delivered a rare spectacle at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai, where Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) finally broke their long-standing losing streak against Chennai Super Kings (CSK) at the iconic Chepauk. In what turned out to be a tense low-scoring game, SRH chased down the target with five wickets in hand, marking their first-ever win over CSK at this venue after five previous failed attempts. This victory came exactly a year after they were thrashed by 78 runs by the same opponent at the same ground in IPL 2024. However, this time, SRH's bowlers exploited the spin-friendly conditions perfectly, and the batters held their nerve in a tricky chase, showing commendable game awareness. The win not only helped SRH overcome a psychological barrier but also kept their playoff hopes alive as they moved up to eighth place with six points. With momentum back on their side, SRH will now look to build on this confidence as they head into the business end of the tournament.

For CSK, the night was one to forget — not just because of the loss, but because of what it symbolized for their IPL 2025 campaign. With just four points from nine matches, CSK now find themselves anchored at the bottom of the points table — a sight rarely associated with the five-time champions. The aura of dominance at Chepauk has officially cracked, and this defeat could well be the final blow to their playoff hopes. Even if they manage to win their remaining five games, reaching 14 points may still not be enough to secure qualification, especially considering their negative net run-rate. Their season so far has been riddled with batting collapses, lackluster bowling spells, and strategic errors — a stark contrast to the clinical and composed CSK sides of previous years. Leadership, team balance, and bench strength have all come into question. With one more loss, their exit from the tournament will be official, potentially marking the end of an era and raising big questions about the future direction of the franchise.