'We know ourselves better now': Simons reflects on CSK's disappointing campaign

Chennai Super Kings' disappointing IPL 2026 campaign ended with a crushing 89-run defeat to Gujarat Titans in Ahmedabad on Thursday (May 21), confirming CSK's elimination while sealing a top-two finish for GT. After the Titans posted 229/4, CSK were bowled out for 140 in 13.4 overs.

CSK bowling coach Eric Simons said the franchise would take important lessons from a campaign featuring several young players. "Each player goes away with something to work on. As a bowling coach, I put reports together for each guy to come back an improved player, like we saw Anshul (Kamboj) last season."

Simons felt the tournament helped CSK understand themselves better. "We know ourselves a lot better as a unit and we also know individuals better – what they can and can't do. Someone like Kartik has come along magnificently. We've come away understanding ourselves as a unit better, and that stands us in good stead. It's an important learning for Stephen (Fleming) as head coach to know the balance of the side."

Simons pointed to injuries as a major factor, particularly the loss of Jamie Overton. "Just as we were getting momentum, we lose someone like Jamie Overton, who's such a balancing factor. So important to our bowling attack through the middle, so we don't have to make crazy changes. He can also bat at the back end."

On batting order changes against GT, Simons said: "We looked at what GT have done on this ground, what lengths they've bowled. We met Short (Matt) as a particularly good player of short bowling, so we thought we'd counter it with him at the top. They bowled very well throughout the innings."

On MS Dhoni's return for 2027, Simons said: "He has hit the ball so well. He obviously had a leg injury which made it difficult for him to run. Only MS will know and MS will make the decision about when he's ready. If he knows he's not, he won't play. He'll make the decision in the best interest of the team."

Titans spinner Rashid Khan said conditions remained consistent and credited GT's bowlers for adapting quicker. "The bowling attack we have, especially the fast bowling unit, have done a great job throughout the tournament. On this wicket, if you hit the right area consistently with good pace, there is something for the bowler. We adjusted quicker than them – that's why we won again."

Rashid stressed sticking to plans with the new ball. "You have to bring consistency and keep hitting the right area. You will go for runs but there is reward. If someone hits a couple of boundaries, you can't go into death bowling mode. When bowling early, you need to be aggressive and hit the right area consistently."