The 18th season of the Indian Premier League (IPL) was packed with drama and surprises. While Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) finally ended their title drought by lifting their maiden IPL trophy, it was a season to forget for Chennai Super Kings (CSK).

The five-time champions not only missed the playoffs but also finished at the bottom of the table.

However, despite their on-field struggles, CSK walked away with a historic achievement that reinforces the franchise’s core values.

CSK Win Record Seventh Fair Play Award

Led by MS Dhoni, CSK created history by winning the IPL Fair Play Award for a record seventh time — the most by any team in the tournament's history.

They previously won the award in 2008, 2010, 2011, 2013, 2014, 2015, and most recently in 2023. No other team has come close to this level of consistency in maintaining the spirit of the game.

Trailing CSK in the Fair Play standings, Sunrisers Hyderabad have won the award three times, followed by Mumbai Indians and Rajasthan Royals with two each. Delhi Capitals, Punjab Kings, Gujarat Titans, and the now-defunct Gujarat Lions have each won it once. Notably, RCB have never won the Fair Play Award, despite their recent on-field success.

CSK’s IPL 2025 campaign was riddled with setbacks. Under Ruturaj Gaikwad’s captaincy, the team struggled early on. After his injury, MS Dhoni returned to lead the side, but the turnaround never came. CSK managed to win just 4 out of 14 matches, ending the season with 8 points and a 10th-place finish — their worst ever in IPL history.

While trophies are often seen as the ultimate prize, CSK’s seventh Fair Play Award is a powerful reminder of what they stand for: discipline, respect, and the true spirit of cricket.

Even in defeat, the franchise showed why it remains one of the most respected teams in the IPL.

Even in defeat, the franchise showed why it remains one of the most respected teams in the IPL.