Netizens expressed their disappointment towards CSK’s performance leading to a loss against the LSG in their May 15th clash, and stated that ‘CSK is done for this season’. After a slow start to IPL 2026, losing three matches consecutively, lingering at the bottom of the points table, CSK have fought back hard to be at the fifth spot in the points table with 12 points and alive in the tournament to secure a top-four spot. CSK losing against LSG at Ekanna has put them in a risky spot, pushing them to win two in two games against SRH and GT next. 

Even that won’t be enough, as ultimately it will boil down to NRR and other team winning permutations and combinations. LSG tumbled CSK down to sixth spot with a 7-wicket win. CSK’s loss would be mostly because of their slow batting in the powerplay that put them in the back foot of Sanju Samson, leaving early along with Ruturaj Gaikwad. From a point where 200-plus looked doable, CSK fumbled at only 187. LSG had no mercy as Mitchell Marsh toiled with CSK bowlers, with Nicholas Pooran firing equally at the end. Anshul Kamboj conceded 63 runs in 16 balls, making CSK’s hope for qualification bleak.

Netizens were quick to share disappointment with CSK’s poor performance in an important game. Some rival netizens couldn’t stop celebrating, stating how their team sits at the top and CSK's almost out of the race. Some mocked that finally MS Dhoni might come out to play IPL 2026 after CSK’s elimination. Some netizens shared that people who don’t watch sports are better off, as they don’t have emotions attached to a single team that can ruin someone’s mood.

 

‘Nothing to worry about’: CSK skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad qualification scenario

CSK would next lock horns with Sunrisers Hyderabad and Gujarat Titans to fight their way towards qualification. It won’t be an easy contest as both teams are in sublime form, and also the qualification will depend on NRR and how other top teams are performing. On being asked about qualification pressure, CSK skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad said that he is confident in his team that they can win the remaining two games and there’s absolutely nothing to worry about, but just focus on the game.

“Well, the first challenge is to get to Chennai. After that, making sure we improve on areas we should and try to adapt and assess conditions as quickly as possible. It is a simple calculation for us, nothing complicated. Nothing to worry about. Just make sure we have a good day, and hope to turn things around,” said Gaikwad.

Rajasthan Royals and Punjab Kings revive some hope from CSK’s loss as they get past CSK in the points table with better NRR.