Making Major Changes Not In CSK DNA: Matthew Hayden

Five-time Indian Premier League (IPL) champion Chennai Super Kings are having a horrendous season in the current edition of the IPL. After playing six games, they are in the last spot on the points table. They have won just one game (their first) and have lost five games in a row since then. 

Many players are unable to perform as required in this season, especially in the batting order. Rahul Tripathi, Deepak Hooda, and Vijay Shankar have not been able to provide substance to CSK’s middle order. Meanwhile, even Matheesha Pathirana has underperformed, which has led to CSK suffering in the bowling department as well. 

With so many players out of touch, questions are being asked of the CSK management to make some major changes in the playing XI and include some new players who can bring much-needed impetus to their campaign. However, broadcaster and former CSK opener Matthew Hayden feels that doing anything of that sort isn’t in CSK’s DNA. 

“I doubt we’ll see major changes—it’s just not in CSK’s DNA,” Hayden said. 

“Their approach will likely be: back yourselves, trust the process. They might not be the team that scores 60 runs in the powerplay, but they have to find a point of difference. 

“Without change, it becomes insanity—doing the same thing over and over, expecting different results. Whether they recognise and act on that is still uncertain, but something clearly needs to shift.”

CSK have also lost three out of the four games they have played at Chepauk. They might need to leave aside their aversion to making big changes in their side because very soon, they’ll be in a situation in the tournament where they might need to win every single game to make it to the playoffs.