Chennai Super Kings are known for consistency, calm leadership, and strong finishes in the IPL. For many fans, CSK represents stability rather than collapse. Yet, even the most successful teams have difficult days. Over the years, CSK has faced a few batting disasters where nothing seemed to work. These low scores did not define the franchise, but they became important moments in IPL history.
Instead of just listing numbers, we explain the match situations, pressure points, and patterns behind these performances. The aim is to give fans a clear, simple, and honest picture of CSK’s toughest batting days, season by season, without exaggeration or filler.
CSK Lowest Score in IPL History: The 79 All Out Shock
The lowest score in CSK’s IPL history came in 2013 against the Mumbai Indians, when the team was bowled out for just 79 runs. This match shocked fans because CSK entered the game with confidence and experience. The pitch offered movement, but the collapse was mainly due to poor shot selection and relentless pressure from MI’s bowlers.
CSK lost early wickets and never recovered. The middle order failed to settle, and the lower order could not resist for long. Mumbai Indians chased the target comfortably, turning the match into a one sided contest. Even today, this innings is remembered as CSK’s worst batting performance.
CSK Lowest Scores by IPL Season (2008–2025)
Over the years, CSK has faced a few batting disasters where nothing seemed to work. Here are some lowest scores scored by CSK in the IPL season from 2008-2025.
| Season | Lowest CSK Score | Against | Date |
| 2008 | 109 all out | RR | 4 May 2008 |
| 2009 | 129 all out | RCB | 14 May 2009 |
| 2010 | 112/9 | DC | 15 Apr 2010 |
| 2011 | 114/4 | KKR | 7 May 2011 |
| 2012 | 110/8 | DC | 10 Apr 2012 |
| 2013 | 79 all out | MI | 5 May 2013 |
| 2014 | 138/4 | RCB | 18 May 2014 |
| 2015 | 161/8 | MI | 24 May 2015 (Final) |
| 2016 | CSK did not play | — | — |
| 2017 | CSK did not play | — | — |
| 2018 | 128/6 | DC | 18 May 2018 |
| 2019 | 109 all out | MI | 26 Apr 2019 |
| 2020 | 114/9 | MI | 23 Oct 2020 |
| 2021 | 118/7 | KKR | 26 Sep 2021 |
| 2022 | 97 all out | MI | 12 May 2022 |
| 2023 | 178/7 | GT | 31 Mar 2023 |
| 2024 | 140/6 | PBKS | 18 May 2024 |
| 2025 | 103/9 | KKR | 12 Apr 2025 |
IPL 2008: CSK Scored 109 All Out
Chennai Super Kings recorded their lowest score of the 2008 IPL season when they were bowled out for 109 against Rajasthan Royals on 4 May 2008. This match took place during the inaugural IPL season, when teams were still adapting to the fast paced T20 format. CSK struggled from the beginning of the innings and lost wickets at regular intervals.
Rajasthan Royals bowled with discipline and did not allow CSK batters to settle. The middle order failed to build partnerships, and the lower order could not stretch the innings. Rajasthan Royals chased the target comfortably, winning the match by 8 wickets. This collapse highlighted CSK’s early learning phase in IPL cricket, where adjusting to pressure situations was still a work in progress.
IPL 2009: CSK Scored 129 All Out
In the 2009 IPL season, CSK’s lowest score came against Royal Challengers Bangalore when they were bowled out for 129 runs on 14 May 2009. While this score may not appear extremely low, it was CSK’s weakest batting performance that season.
CSK lost key wickets early and never managed to control the innings. RCB’s bowlers kept things tight, forcing CSK into risky shots. The total proved insufficient as Bangalore chased the target and won the match by 2 wickets. Early wickets disrupted CSK’s planned batting order. Lack of partnerships slowed scoring during the middle overs.
IPL 2010: CSK Scored 112 for 9 Wickets
The 2010 IPL season saw CSK record their lowest total when they scored 112 for 9 wickets against Delhi Capitals on 15 April 2010. Batting first, CSK struggled on a surface that offered help to bowlers. The top order failed to capitalize, putting pressure on the middle order early.
Despite a few attempts to stabilize the innings, CSK could not build any strong partnerships. Delhi’s bowlers maintained tight lines and forced mistakes. Chasing a modest target, the Delhi Capitals won the match by 6 wickets. This game showed how quickly momentum can shift in T20 cricket when a team loses early control of the innings.
IPL 2011: CSK Scored 114 for 4 Wickets
CSK’s lowest score in the 2011 IPL season came against Kolkata Knight Riders, where they managed 114 for 4 wickets on 7 May 2011. Unlike other collapses, CSK were not bowled out, but the slow scoring rate proved costly. Conservative batting reduced scoring momentum. Middle overs lacked boundary options. Field placements blocked easy singles effectively. Required run rate increased beyond control
Kolkata’s bowlers controlled the middle overs and restricted boundary opportunities. CSK tried to play cautiously after losing early wickets, but the approach backfired. KKR chased the target easily and won the match by 60 runs.
IPL 2012: CSK Scored 110 for 8 Wickets
In IPL 2012, CSK’s lowest score came against Delhi Capitals when they posted 110 for 8 wickets on 10 April 2012. CSK started poorly and failed to recover after losing early wickets. The pitch offered assistance to bowlers, and Delhi used it smartly.
CSK tried to rebuild through the middle overs, but the scoring remained slow. Late hitting was also ineffective, leaving the team with a below par total. Delhi Capitals chased the target comfortably, winning by 8 wickets. This match underlined the importance of powerplay stability and finishing strength in T20 matches.
IPL 2013: CSK Scored 79 All Out
The 2013 season marked CSK’s lowest score in IPL history, as they were bowled out for just 79 runs against the Mumbai Indians on 5 May 2013. This shocking collapse happened at the Wankhede Stadium and stunned fans. CSK lost wickets rapidly and never looked settled at the crease.
Mumbai’s bowlers attacked relentlessly, exploiting movement and pressure. No CSK batter managed to build resistance. Mumbai Indians chased the small target easily and won by 60 runs. This match remains the most talked about batting failure in CSK’s IPL journey.
IPL 2014: CSK Scored 138 for 4 Wickets
CSK’s lowest score in the 2014 IPL season came against Royal Challengers Bangalore, where they scored 138 for 4 wickets on 18 May 2014. Although CSK were not bowled out, the total proved inadequate on a good batting surface.
RCB’s bowlers restricted scoring during the middle overs, preventing CSK from accelerating. CSK lost momentum after a steady start and failed to finish strongly. Bangalore chased the target successfully and won the match by 5 wickets. This game showed that even without a collapse, slow scoring can lead to defeat in T20 cricket.
IPL 2015: CSK Scored 161 for 8 Wickets
In the 2015 IPL season, CSK’s lowest score came in the final against Mumbai Indians, where they managed 161 for 8 wickets on 24 May 2015. Despite being a decent total on paper, the score was below par considering the match conditions and the occasion.
CSK lost wickets at crucial moments and failed to accelerate in the final overs. Mumbai Indians bowled smartly, especially at the death, denying CSK easy boundaries. While CSK were not bowled out, the lack of a strong finish proved costly. Mumbai chased the target comfortably and won the final by 41 runs, denying CSK another IPL title that season. Death overs lacked big hitting impact. MI bowlers executed yorkers consistently under pressure
IPL 2016 & 2017: CSK Did Not Play the Season
Chennai Super Kings did not participate in the 2016 IPL season due to a two year suspension imposed on the franchise. As a result, there was no CSK batting performance or score recorded for this season. CSK were also absent from the 2017 IPL season due to suspension. There were no matches, scores, or batting records involving CSK during this year.
The absence of CSK was strongly felt in the league, as the team had been one of the most consistent performers since 2008. The break allowed the franchise to rebuild its structure and return stronger. The absence makes 2017 a unique season in CSK history, marked by reflection rather than performance.
IPL 2018: CSK Scored 128 for 6 Wickets
CSK’s lowest score in the 2018 IPL season came against Delhi Capitals, where they scored 128 for 6 wickets on 18 May 2018. The match was played on a surface that assisted bowlers, and CSK struggled to find momentum throughout the innings.
Early wickets forced CSK to adopt a cautious approach. While the middle order tried to stabilize the innings, the scoring rate never picked up. Delhi bowled with discipline and controlled the game. Chasing the modest total, Delhi Capitals won by 34 runs, handing CSK one of their rare batting setbacks that season.
IPL 2019: CSK Scored 109 All Out
During the 2019 IPL season, CSK recorded their lowest score when they were bowled out for 109 against Mumbai Indians on 26 April 2019. Batting first, CSK failed to cope with MI’s pace and bounce, losing wickets at regular intervals.
Mumbai’s bowlers kept things tight and forced CSK batters into mistakes. No significant partnership developed, leaving CSK with a below par total. Mumbai Indians chased the target comfortably and won the match by 46 runs. This collapse stood out in an otherwise strong season for CSK.
IPL 2020: CSK Scored 114 for 9 Wickets
In the 2020 IPL season, CSK’s lowest score came against the Mumbai Indians, where they managed 114 for 9 wickets on 23 October 2020. Played in the UAE, the match exposed CSK’s struggle against pace and movement.
CSK lost early wickets and never recovered fully. Mumbai bowled with precision, using variations effectively. With such a low target to defend, CSK had little chance. Mumbai Indians chased the total without losing a wicket, winning the match by 10 wickets. This game highlighted CSK’s difficult season in 2020.
IPL 2021: CSK Scored 118 for 7 Wickets
CSK’s lowest score in the 2021 IPL season came against Kolkata Knight Riders, where they managed 118 for 7 wickets on 26 September 2021. Batting first, CSK struggled to gain momentum on a slow pitch that assisted the bowlers. Early wickets forced the team into a cautious approach, which reduced scoring options in the middle overs. Early wickets slowed scoring intent significantly
Despite having experienced batters at the crease, CSK failed to accelerate at the death. KKR bowled tightly and used the conditions well. Chasing the modest target, Kolkata Knight Riders won the match by 7 wickets, making it a forgettable outing for CSK’s batting unit.
IPL 2022: CSK Scored 97 All Out
In the 2022 IPL season, CSK suffered another major collapse when they were bowled out for just 97 against the Mumbai Indians on 12 May 2022. This match came during a difficult transition phase for the team, with several changes in the playing eleven.
CSK lost wickets regularly and never looked settled at the crease. Mumbai’s bowlers applied continuous pressure, exploiting mistakes with disciplined lines. No batter managed to play a stabilizing innings. Mumbai Indians chased the target comfortably and won the match by 5 wickets, marking CSK’s second lowest score in IPL history.
IPL 2023: CSK Scored 178 for 7 Wickets
CSK’s lowest score in the 2023 IPL season came against the Gujarat Titans, where they scored 178 for 7 wickets on 31 March 2023, the opening match of the season. While the score was competitive, it remained CSK’s lowest total that year due to the high scoring nature of the tournament.
CSK posted a strong total, but the Gujarat Titans chased it down successfully. No partnership crossed a meaningful run stand. Despite losing wickets, CSK failed to control the middle overs with the ball. Gujarat won the match by 5 wickets, showing how even good totals can fall short on flat pitches.
IPL 2024: CSK Scored 140 for 6 Wickets
In the 2024 IPL season, CSK’s lowest score came against Punjab Kings, where they managed 140 for 6 wickets on 18 May 2024. Batting first, CSK struggled to build momentum after losing early wickets.
The pitch slowed down as the innings progressed, making shots difficult. CSK’s middle order attempted to stabilize, but the scoring rate remained under control. Punjab Kings bowled with discipline and defended the target successfully. PBKS won the match by 9 runs, handing CSK one of their lowest batting totals of the season.
IPL 2025: CSK Scored 103 for 9 Wickets
CSK’s lowest score in the 2025 IPL season came against Kolkata Knight Riders, where they scored 103 for 9 wickets on 12 April 2025. The match was played at Chepauk, making the collapse more surprising for fans.
CSK struggled against spin friendly conditions and lost wickets at regular intervals. Attempts to rebuild failed as the required run rate kept increasing. KKR bowled smartly and restricted CSK throughout the innings. Kolkata Knight Riders chased the target successfully, making this one of CSK’s toughest home performances in recent IPL history.
CSK Lowest Scores: All Time Worst Batting Performances
CSK’s lowest scores across IPL seasons reflect rare but significant collapses. The table below highlights the most notable low totals, giving clear numerical context to these performances.
| Score | Opponent | Year | Result |
| 79 | Mumbai Indians | 2013 | Lost by 60 runs |
| 97 | Mumbai Indians | 2022 | Lost by 5 wickets |
| 109 | Rajasthan Royals | 2008 | Lost by 8 wickets |
| 109 | Mumbai Indians | 2019 | Lost by 46 runs |
| 110 | Delhi Capitals | 2012 | Lost by 8 wickets |
These scores stand out because they are far below CSK’s usual standards. They also show that such collapses were spread across different eras, not limited to one phase.
CSK’s Lowest Scores During the Prime Dhoni Era:
Even during MS Dhoni’s strongest years as captain, CSK experienced a few unexpected batting collapses. One such phase was between 2010 and 2012, when CSK had dominant squads but still failed on certain tricky surfaces. Scores like 112/9 against Delhi Capitals in 2010 and 110/8 in 2012 came despite experienced batters in the lineup.
These matches usually followed a similar pattern. CSK lost early wickets, tried to stabilize, but could not accelerate later. Opposition teams applied constant pressure, forcing risky shots. These collapses were not about a lack of skill but about match conditions and momentum turning quickly.
Why did collapses happen even in strong CSK years?
- Early wickets disrupted planned batting order stability
- Middle overs lacked rotation of strike consistently
- Bowlers used defensive fields forcing risky shots
- Required run rate increased faster than expected
Common Patterns Behind CSK’s Lowest Scores:
When we look closely at CSK’s lowest scores across seasons, a few clear patterns appear. These collapses rarely happened because of one bad batter. Instead, they were the result of pressure building slowly and then exploding within a few overs.
- Early wickets often forced CSK to change their batting plans.
- Once the run rate dropped, batters tried to recover too quickly.
- Another common factor was quality bowling.
- Most low scores came against teams with disciplined pace or smart spin attacks.
- Field placements also played a role, cutting off singles and forcing risky shots.
- These patterns show that CSK’s collapses were more about match situations than lack of ability.
- Even experienced teams can struggle when momentum turns sharply.
How CSK Responded After Lowest Batting Scores?
One reason CSK remains one of the most respected IPL teams is how they respond after failures. Historically, CSK rarely allowed one bad match to affect the next. After heavy batting collapses, the team often came back with clearer plans and better intent.
Batters focused on partnerships rather than quick runs. Bowlers stepped up to defend modest totals in following matches. Leadership played a major role in calming the dressing room. Instead of panic changes, CSK trusted experience and stability. This mindset helped them recover quickly, even after humiliating losses. Low scores became learning moments rather than long term problems.
Conclusion:
CSK’s lowest scores in IPL history are rare moments in an otherwise consistent journey. From the shocking 79 all out in 2013 to struggles in transition seasons, these collapses remind fans that no team is immune to pressure. What separates CSK is how they respond. Instead of repeating mistakes, the team adapts, learns, and moves forward. These low scores are not signs of weakness but chapters that shaped CSK’s resilient identity in IPL history.
FAQs:
CSK’s lowest IPL score is 79 all out against Mumbai Indians in 2013.
CSK has recorded most of their lowest scores against Mumbai Indians.
Yes, CSK has been bowled out under 100 twice in IPL history.
Most of CSK’s lowest scores came in away matches rather than at Chepauk.
No, CSK usually recovers strongly after low scores and remains consistent.
Kiran is a cricket analyst and writer with strong expertise in the Indian Premier League and modern cricket. He closely follows match situations, player performances, team strategies, and season trends to deliver clear and accurate insights. Passionate about the game, Kiran enjoys exploring emerging talents, tracking auction movements, and sharing timely updates related to IPL and competitive cricket.
