CSK playoff equation gets tense as Michael Hussey delivers bold verdict after humiliating LSG defeat

After their defeat to LSG, CSK will be disappointed to have missed out on the perfect opportunity to climb to fourth spot.

Published on: May 16, 2026, 16:00:50 IST

Written by Neelav Chakravarti

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Chennai Super Kings batting coach Michael Hussey is relishing the prospect that the franchise must treat every remaining game as a 'final' following their defeat against Lucknow Super Giants. Mitchell Marsh's brutal 38-ball 90 and Nicholas Pooran's four consecutive sixes in the 17th over were too much to handle for CSK as LSG won by seven wickets. CSK have 12 points from 12 games and can still reach 16 if they win their last two fixtures.

Chennai Super Kings lost to Lucknow Super Giants on Friday. (ANI Pic Service)

Then NRR will become the deciding factor, and they are likely to finish the league stage in an Eliminator berth, with a third- or fourth-placed finish. If they win only one of their remaining two games, the outcome depends on other results, as both Punjab Kings and Rajasthan Royals can reach the 14-point mark.

Also Read: Mohsin Naqvi in India during IPL final; ICC's scheduled meeting leads to sensational claims

‘Every game is like a final’: Michael Hussey

Speaking in the post-match press conference, Hussey said, "Well, I mean, I actually love this time of the tournament because it's like every game is like a final, you know, and we're in that situation now."

"We're going to have to win our last two matches. I mean, I haven't studied the table that closely. Yeah, there's a lot of teams fighting out for that probably the last couple of spots in the top-four.

"This is where (stage of the tournament) the pressure is really on everyone, not just us, but all the other teams as well. And you can see some crazy things happen. So we're still (in with) a chance...we still have belief that we can make it through," he said.

Excited for the upcoming games, he continued, "We're going to obviously have to take care of our business. Probably need a couple of results to go our way as well. But that's the nature of this tournament. And I feel like it's really building to a really nice climax."

"And that's why I think it's one of the best tournaments in the world, because at this stage of the tournament, you know, there's only two teams that are actually definitely out. Even even the teams that are below us are still a chance, you know, theoretically to make the final. So I think it's an awesome opportunity for everyone. But, yeah, that's the way we'll be looking at it," he added.

CSK will also be disappointed to have missed out on the perfect opportunity to climb to fourth spot, especially as they were up against a side that has been the poorest this season. LSG are already eliminated from the playoff race and is at the bottom of the standings.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Neelav Chakravarti
Neelav Chakravarti has been part of the digital sports team at Hindustan Times since 2022, where he covers a wide range of disciplines, including chess, cricket, football, and Olympic sports. Working in a fast-paced digital newsroom, he regularly handles live blogs, breaking updates, and trending stories, combining speed with clarity to keep readers informed in real time. Chess remains both a professional beat and a personal passion for Neelav, and he closely tracks major international tournaments, player narratives, and emerging talents. He is particularly fascinated by the patience, calculation, and strategic depth the game demands, often exploring the psychological side of competition in his writing. Beyond sports journalism, Neelav has a deep interest in visual storytelling and filmmaking, actively participating in film festivals and engaging with independent cinema. He is especially drawn to films that capture the subtleties of everyday life and human relationships, appreciating storytelling that balances realism with emotional depth. This creative interest complements his approach to sports coverage, where he enjoys highlighting the human stories behind performances and results. A history enthusiast by academic training, Neelav holds a bachelor’s degree in the subject and maintains a sustained interest in ancient and medieval Indian history, particularly in cultural and social transitions across eras. His curiosity about the past often shapes his perspective on contemporary narratives and long-form storytelling. When he isn’t tracking scores or developing storylines, Neelav enjoys spending time over the chessboard, relaxing with his cats, or listening to the Empire podcast by Anita Anand and William Dalrymple. He also enjoys reading long-form sports writing that explores the emotional and cultural layers of sport, while maintaining a quiet routine that balances reading, reflection, and occasional time with friends.Read More

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