For a team known for its fighting spirit, Friday night was one to forget for Chennai Super Kings. In front of their home crowd at the MA Chidambaram Stadium, the five-time champions suffered a crushing eight-wicket defeat at the hands of Kolkata Knight Riders.
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What made the loss even harder to digest was the margin -- KKR chased down the modest target of 104 with 59 balls to spare. This marked CSK’s worst defeat in IPL history in terms of balls remaining.
New low for Chennai Super Kings
After being asked to bat first, CSK never found momentum. KKR’s bowlers -- especially their spinners -- completely outplayed the home side, restricting them to just 103 for 9 in 20 overs.
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It was a collapse that reflected poor shot selection, mounting pressure and clinical bowling.
In reply, KKR came out firing. Sunil Narine hit a six off the very first ball and Quinton de Kock followed up with a flurry of boundaries.
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Though both openers departed -- the chase was already under control. A calm finish saw KKR home in just 10.1 overs.
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Top 5 biggest IPL defeats for CSK in terms of balls remaining
With this, CSK added an unwanted record to their books. Here are the franchise’s top five heaviest defeats based on balls remaining:
- vs KKR – 59 balls (2025)
- vs MI – 46 balls (2020)
- vs PBKS – 42 balls (2021)
- vs DD – 40 balls (2012)
- vs MI – 37 balls (2008)
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While the franchise has enjoyed more success than most over the years -- this defeat will likely sting -- and serve as a wake-up call as the tournament rolls on.