Finch, Rayadu Believes CSK Losing Matches Because of a Wrong Game Plan

Aaron Finch and Ambati Rayadu have blamed Chennai Super Kings for following a flawed game plan in the recent matches. They lamented the approach of the CSK, saying both their strategy and execution are faulty, which is why they have lost back-to-back matches in the IPL 2026.

"For me, as a captain, you can always understand poor execution. If the plan is right and the bowler has bought into it, and they mis-execute, that's okay. because you know that that's something they have practiced over and over and that's going to happen," said former Australian captain, Aaron Finch.

"[But] was the planning right? I don't think it was. Was the execution right? No, it absolutely wasn't. So when you're missing both of them, that's worrying signs." added Aaron Finch.

Former India batter Ambati Rayudu also supported Finch’s view, saying CSK have so far stuck to a bad game plan, which is why their results have been disappointing.

"More than a bad plan, they just stuck to that bad plan. There was nobody to intervene and to just take some time off, take those 20-30 seconds, just make it slightly more slow and then guide the bowler with a message. I think they should have slowed it down a little bit." said Ambati Rayudu.

Aaron Finch then gave the example of Overton’s spell, in which he was smashed all around the ground. He said no one approached Overton to help him adjust his length, showing that CSK were out of answers.

"[Overton bowled] everything was around the wicket. Around the wicket, six, six, six. At no point was there anyone go up to the bowler and say, 'okay, maybe this plan is not working, let's think of something else '. What it is, is your head starts spinning in a situation like that.” said Aaron Finch.

"I've been in that situation as a captain where you're thinking: what's happening? And before you know it, that over's gone and you've forgot to rejig your plans." added Aaron Finch.

Ambati Rayudu described this bowling performance as a lack of experience. He said the bowlers weren’t sure how to adjust their lengths, which is a worrying sign for CSK.

"Their follow-up balls after a boundary or a six aren't great. Generally, as a bowler, you need to be aware that, okay, I have been hit for a six, but it's the next ball that matters. Whenever you see good death bowlers, they always follow up with a very good ball. But their powerplay bowling and middle-overs bowling was much better than what it was last game." said Ambati Rayudu.