Chennai Super Kings‘ disappointing IPL 2026 campaign came to a crushing end after a heavy 89-run defeat against Gujarat Titans at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. The loss officially knocked the five-time champions out of the playoff race, while Gujarat sealed a top-two finish with a dominant all-round performance. Following the defeat, former India pacer Zaheer Khan openly criticised CSK’s tactical decisions, particularly the way the franchise handled power-hitter Shivam Dube during the run chase.

Zaheer Khan unhappy with Shivam Dube batting at No. 7

CSK were chasing a daunting target of 230, but their innings never truly gained momentum after early blows from Gujarat’s pace attack. Amid the collapse, Dube emerged as the lone bright spark for the Chennai side with a fearless 47 off just 17 deliveries. His aggressive knock briefly entertained fans, but by the time he arrived at the crease, the game had already drifted far away from CSK’s control.

Zaheer felt that the team management failed to maximise Dube’s strengths by pushing him too far down the batting order. Speaking during a discussion, the former fast bowler questioned the logic behind using one of CSK’s most destructive batters at number seven.

According to Zaheer, a player like Dube should get enough time at the crease to influence the game, especially in high-pressure chases. He suggested that CSK must seriously consider promoting the left-handed batter higher up the order next season to make better use of his attacking ability. The former India pacer pointed out that Dube’s clean ball-striking and confidence against spin and pace make him a valuable middle-order asset, and keeping him lower down only limits his impact.

“Maybe having Shivam Dube bat up the order is something they can think of. You know seven is too low a number for him,” said Zaheer on Cricbuzz.

CSK’s bowling unit also under scanner

While discussing Chennai’s campaign, Zaheer also highlighted concerns surrounding the team’s bowling department. He stated that CSK still appear to be searching for the right balance after the departure of Ravindra Jadeja, whose all-round presence had been crucial for the franchise over the years.

Zaheer noted that the team requires a reliable player who can consistently contribute with both bat and ball. He mentioned that Akeal Hosein showed glimpses of promise during the season, but CSK would need to carefully develop and back such players moving forward.

Despite the disappointing exit, Zaheer did not completely dismiss Chennai’s efforts this year. He described it as a decent season overall, suggesting that the franchise still showed fighting spirit despite several inconsistencies throughout the tournament.

“They need to strengthen their bowling for sure and Jadeja’s replacement is something they’re searching for, who is going to make that consistent impact with the ball and the bat. Akeal Hosein showed some signs of it, so how they develop is something which CSK will be closely monitoring. But on the whole, it has been a decent season for them,” added Zaheer.

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Gujarat Titans dominate from start to finish

The match itself turned into a one-sided affair as Gujarat Titans completely outplayed CSK in every department. Batting first, Gujarat piled up a massive 229/4 thanks to superb knocks from Sai Sudharsan, who smashed 84, skipper Shubman Gill, who made 64, and Jos Buttler, whose unbeaten 57 provided the finishing touch.

In reply, Chennai’s batting order collapsed under relentless pressure from Mohammed Siraj and Kagiso Rabada during the powerplay. CSK were eventually bowled out for just 140 in 13.4 overs, ending their IPL 2026 journey in disappointing fashion.

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