In the eagerly anticipated IPL 2025 encounter featuring Gujarat Titans (GT) vs. Chennai Super Kings (CSK), fans were surprised to see veteran all-rounder Ravichandran Ashwin omitted from the lineup. The rationale for this unexpected change came directly from CSK captain MS Dhoni. Just prior to the last game of the season, Dhoni confirmed tactical changes to the team's final line-up; following discussion, Deepak Hooda made his way into the playing XI at the expense of Ashwin. 

Dhoni elaborated that the decision was impacted by the team's position on the points after using their last match as a tactical alignment to remodify the squad that involved Ravichandran Ashwin. “We’re last on the table and will stay last whether we win or lose. We just want to enjoy our cricket. We have one change—Hooda comes in for Ashwin,” Dhoni said when explaining the purpose of the change, and looking at the significance of Ashwin and the team, it was looking for a robust performance with a view toward the season and looking for the other CSK player to have one last shot.

Given Ravichandran Ashwin's experience and ability to play as a bowler and batter, his omission is impactful. However, given CSK's trouble within the league, MS Dhoni's current position has given him the freedom to try new tactics without the demand for results. The decision to include Deepak Hooda, known for his aggressive batting and handy spin bowling, reflects a shift towards a more dynamic and fresh approach.

Tactical changes for the last game 

CSK's captaincy seems to be more about having fun and experimenting in this last game of the IPL 2025 season rather than worrying about results. They have no chance of getting off the last position, so with nothing to lose, the team wants to finish this tournament in a better mood, telling players to enjoy themselves while they play freely. Having Hooda instead of Ashwin is a way to inject energy and variation into the middle order and look at combinations that they can possibly use in the future.

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We will miss Ashwin's experience, but this provides him an opportunity to rest and recuperate at the end of a long and stressful season. As for CSK fans, they just want to see how Hooda copes with the pressure in this big game and if this young lineup will bring a bit of vigor to the end of their campaign.