Although Chennai Super Kings (CSK) have endured a difficult season and are eliminated from the playoff race in 2025, batting coach Michael Hussey said that the five-time champions have not lost their composure. He feels Chennai can challenge any team in the league.

Ahead of their next match against Royal Challengers Bengaluru, Hussey mentioned about the team’s challenges but highlighted their ongoing focus on improvement and long-term strategy.

“We’re certainly not going to panic and throw everything out just because it hasn’t gone well this year, However, there are a few areas that definitely need improvement,” Hussey stated.

In this season, CSK have only won two of their ten matches, resulting in a mere four points and the 10th position. Their elimination following loss to the Punjab Kings represents a significant low point for the franchise, as it has now failed to qualify for the second round in consecutive seasons for the first time in history.

However, Hussey remains hopeful and believes the team is not far from being competitive again. “I’m aware that we’re at the bottom of the table and haven’t won many matches, but I honestly don’t think we’re too far off. We’ve got some match-winners in the squad, and we can certainly compete with any team in the league,” he added.

He noted that a few close losses could have changed the course of CSK’s season. “I can think about three games where we could have won, and if that had happened, we have been in the top four. The winning margins are not big in this competition,” he mentioned.

Despite the setbacks, Hussey pointed to the positive performances of young players like Ayush Mhatre and Dewald Brevis. He emphasised the need to give these youngsters opportunities to grow and secure their long-term future with the franchise.

“It’s a valuable opportunity for some players to get a chance in the IPL. I hope they can seize the opportunity and secure their place in the squad for the future editions,” he concluded.