Data Shorts: Dropped catches cost CSK dearly against PBKS

MS Dhoni expressed disappointment in CSK's fielding, stating that while the team's speed might not be too much, they need to be attentive in the field. Despite fielding an XI with an average age of 30+, CSK finished third in terms of catching efficiency in the 2018 IPL season, but made the most number of misfields (33).

CSK has continued this pattern, with only four times out of 112 games having an average age of their playing XI under 30. While older age is not a direct measurement of fielding ability, it contributes to the majority of players.

IPL 2025 Statistics

CSK Fielding Performance

The overall catch efficiency of the league in the 2022-24 cycle was 80.3%. Several CSK fielders from the current squad were below this threshold, including Ashwin, Jadeja, Hooda, and Sam Curran. The likes of Tripathi and Mukesh stayed in the 60s, while Khaleel was a red flag with just 25%, the worst in the league.

Dropped Catches

The dropped catches have hurt CSK big time, with each of the Player of the Match winners in their four defeats against them getting dropped. Patidar was dropped on 17, 19, and 20, and went on to make 51 at Chepauk. Nitish Rana's top edge burst through Khaleel's hands, and he added another 70 from his next 28 balls. Priyansh Arya was put down off his second ball, a relatively tough caught and bowled chance, and then again on 35.

Fielding Strategy

Skipper Gaikwad attested that the same issue has been critical in the last four games, with dropped catches leading to extra runs. He emphasized the importance of enjoying the fielding, stating that if players are nervous, they will drop catches. He also highlighted the need to work on fielding, saying that it is something they are trying to improve, but it is not happening right now.