In a tense encounter during the IPL 2025 season, MS Dhoni showcased his legendary finishing skills, leading the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) to a vital five-wicket win against the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG). This victory was a much-needed shift for CSK as they snapped a grueling five-match losing streak.
Dhoni delivered a scorching performance with an unbeaten 26 runs off just 11 balls, registering an impressive strike rate of 236.36. Yet, in a display of humility, Dhoni questioned the post-match selection that awarded him the Player of the Match title. He believed that the honor should have gone to Noor Ahmad, LSG's left-arm wrist-spinner, who bowled exceptionally well, conceding just 13 runs in his four-over spell. 'Even today, I was like - why are they giving me the award? Noor bowled really well,' Dhoni openly admitted during the presentation.
Milestones and Pitch Concerns
Besides his batting prowess, Dhoni achieved a remarkable milestone by becoming the first player in IPL history to amass 200 fielding dismissals, a record that includes 155 catches and 46 stumpings. This achievement places him ahead of notable players such as Dinesh Karthik and AB de Villiers. Dhoni's prowess on the field remains unparalleled as he further cements his legacy in the tournament's history.
However, the match wasn't without its criticisms. Dhoni voiced his concerns about the quality of the home ground pitches in Chennai, arguing that the slow surfaces hampered CSK's ability to play the aggressive cricket they're known for. He called for better pitches that could help unlock the team's potential, stressing the need for conducive environments to showcase the team's full batting repertoire.
Strategic Changes and Looking Ahead
The victory was not just about Dhoni's contribution but also highlighted CSK's strategic readjustments. The team notably replaced Devon Conway with debutant Shaik Rasheed. Rasheed, making a mark in his debut, scored a commendable 27 runs off 19 balls, setting a solid foundation for the team early in the match.
In a light-hearted moment post-victory, Dhoni shared a warm interaction with LSG's owner Sanjiv Goenka, reminiscing about their association during the Rising Pune Super Giants days. Despite the win, the celebrations were tempered as CSK still grapples with their position at the bottom of the IPL 2025 points table. The team hopes to build on this victory and climb the rankings as the season progresses.