Mon Apr 14 14:30:00 UTC 2025: ## Pathirana Benched, Hooda Fails as CSK Crumbles Against KKR
**Chennai, India** – Chennai Super Kings (CSK) suffered another crushing defeat in IPL 2025, this time at the hands of Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), scoring a paltry 103/9. The match saw the surprising omission of Sri Lankan pacer Matheesha Pathirana from the playing XI, despite being named an impact player substitute.
While Pathirana, who has taken five wickets in four matches this season, remained unused, fellow substitute Deepak Hooda was brought in as the impact player. However, Hooda’s brief appearance ended in a four-ball duck, further contributing to CSK’s dismal performance. Shivam Dube top-scored for CSK with 31 runs.
CSK’s struggles continue, leaving them languishing in ninth place with only two points from five matches. Their campaign has been hampered by injuries, with regular captain Ruturaj Gaikwad ruled out due to an elbow injury, leaving MS Dhoni to lead the team. The team’s poor start follows a solitary victory against Mumbai Indians in their opening match.
First Piper 