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Black Day for Dhoni? Shubman Gill Breaks the Curse, Starts a New Era

July 7, 2025, 12:38 pm

It took 58 years and nine attempts, but India have finally won a Test at Edgbaston on Sunday, Shubman Gill and his team rewrote history, defeating England in the 2nd Test to level the series 1-1.

This wasn’t just a win—it was a turning point for Indian cricket in England. Leading from the front, Shubman Gill scored a double century and a hundred in one of the most dominant batting performances by an Indian captain in recent times.

India Dominate on England’s Stronghold

Gill’s brilliance wasn’t a solo show it was Mohammed Siraj and Akaash Deep backed it up with five-wicket hauls each, as England crumbled on a surface they’ve long dominated. The bowling, the batting, the energy—this was India like never before at Edgbaston.

A ground that once haunted Indian teams is now a proud part of their legacy.

Gill Achieves What Dhoni and Sachin Couldn’t

Here’s the headline everyone’s talking about—Shubman Gill has done something even MS Dhoni and Sachin Tendulkar couldn’t. Neither managed a Test win at Edgbaston during their careers. But Gill did, for many fans, this felt like the official passing of the torch.

A “Black Day” for Dhoni England Legacy?

Some even called it a “Black Day” for Dhoni’s England legacy—not out of disrespect, but to mark the shift. A new generation has arrived, and they’re not just playing—they’re making history.

This victory wasn’t about breaking a streak it was about redefining leadership, hunger, and purpose.

The Gill Era Has Officially Begun

Gill has stepped up not only as a batsman but as a captain. His composure, decisions, and hunger to win have set the tone for what many now call the Gill Era.

On the other side, Siraj continues to evolve into India’s most reliable fast bowler. Together, this team is not here to match the past. They’re here to surpass it.

Edgbaston, once India’s nightmare, is now a symbol of change. Gill’s team didn’t just win a Test—they changed the narrative, delivered what Dhoni and others couldn’t, and gave Indian fans a moment they’ll never forget.

History has been made; the Gill era has begun.

Rishabh Pant Overtakes MS Dhoni with 7th Test Century in Leeds

June 21, 2025, 10:34 pm

Rishabh Pant officially stepped out of MS Dhoni’s towering shadow on Saturday as he slammed his seventh Test century, becoming the Indian wicketkeeper with the most hundreds in Test cricket. The landmark knock came in the opening Test of the five-match series against England at Headingley, and marked a new era in India’s long tradition of wicketkeeper-batters.

Pant’s latest ton took him past MS Dhoni’s tally of six Test centuries, a record that had remained untouched since the former India skipper retired from the longest format. Dhoni, known for his grit and leadership, had long set the benchmark for Indian wicketkeepers. But with this century, Pant now leads the charts, underlining his place among India’s finest red-ball cricketers.

Pant’s Century Marks a Shift in Wicketkeeping Legacy

While Dhoni’s six centuries came over a long and celebrated career, Pant has notched up seven in just a few years, all while batting with flair, confidence, and maturity beyond his age. His latest hundred was also his third in England, making him the only visiting wicketkeeper in Test history to achieve that feat in the country.

The updated list of Indian wicketkeepers with most Test centuries now reads:

Rishabh Pant – 7
MS Dhoni – 6
Wriddhiman Saha – 3

Pant’s emergence is a reminder of the way Indian cricketing priorities have changed. From Kiran More and Nayan Mongia, glovesmen almost by definition, to Dhoni, who provided balance and leadership, and now to Pant an attacking batter who can turn matches around on his own the keeper’s role has changed immensely.

Domination in England Contributes to Pant’s aura

This century was also Pant’s third in England, after previous ones in 2018 and 2022. No other foreign visiting wicketkeeper has hit more than a century in England. The only two others to have hit three Test hundreds outside their homeland are Les Ames (in the West Indies) and Andy Flower (in India).

Pant’s dominance in England is particularly impressive considering the conditions of seaming and swing-friendly pitches. His aggressive strokeplay, particularly against pace and spin both, has enabled him to thrive in conditions where most overseas batsmen find it challenging.

Rishabh Pant Among the Game’s Elite

Globally, Pant is gradually ascending the list of all-time great wicketkeeper-batters. The top wicketkeepers with the most Test centuries are headed by:

Adam Gilchrist (Australia) – 17
Andy Flower (Zimbabwe) – 12
Les Ames (England) – 8
Rishabh Pant / AB de Villiers (South Africa) – 7

To be mentioned alongside the likes of AB de Villiers and Les Ames is a testament to Pant’s influence, particularly in light of his age and the fact that his prime years are still likely to come.

Vaibhav Suryavanshi Touches MS Dhoni’s Feet Again in CSK Dressing Room | Watch

May 23, 2025, 2:52 am

Decimating international-level bowlers for sixes will come naturally to Vaibhav Suryavanshi, but inside, he is still a 14-year-old boy getting butterflies in his stomach as he watches the game legends. And who else if not MS Dhoni himself? Following what he does best smashing bowlers all around the field Vaibhav Suryavanshi allowed the fanboy within him to take control. On the occasion of the usual post-match handshake between the players of Chennai Super Kings and Rajasthan Royals, Suryavanshi went down to touch Dhoni’s feet rather than shaking hands with him.

Suryavanshi’s Fan Moment with MS Dhoni

A little surprised by the move, Dhoni grasped the other hand of the young RR opener and patted him. But Suryavanshi had more in store. He proceeded to the CSK dressing room post-match. He again met Dhoni and this time, enjoyed a cursory conversation with the great cricketer. In a goodbye gesture, Vaibhav Suryavanshi again touched Dhoni’s feet.

Suryavanshi’s video of going inside the dressing room to touch Dhoni’s feet went viral on social media on Thursday, a couple of days after RR vs CSK match in Delhi.

pic.twitter.com/3iueewIP7o

— 𝓒𝓱𝓲𝓴𝓾 🤍 (@chiku_cheers) May 22, 2025

IPL Journey and Recognition of Vaibhav Suryavanshi

Vaibhav Suryavanshi, one of the standout discoveries of this season, has quickly emerged as the favorite for the Emerging Player of the Year award. His exceptional performance in the IPL earned him a well-deserved reward. The left-handed aggressive batsman has been selected for the India U19 team. He is set to tour England soon.

The baby-faced big-hitter hails from Samastipur, Bihar. He became the talk of the nation after achieving a remarkable feat. He became the youngest player to score an IPL century. His 35-ball century last month against Gujarat Titans was also the second fastest of the league.

First-Class, Youth Cricket Achievements of Vaibhav Suryavanshi

He has represented Bihar in five first-class and six List A matches but hasn’t yet scored a hundred in any of those matches. However, Vaibhav Suryavanshi had scored a hundred against the Australia U19 in the first Youth Test at Chennai last year.

The tour is scheduled to begin on June 24. It will start with a 50-over practice game. This will be followed by a five-match Youth One-Day series. Additionally, two Multi-Day matches against England U19 will be played.

Vaibhav Suryavanshi Touches MS Dhoni’s Feet After RR’s Win Over CSK | Watch

May 21, 2025, 2:08 am

Vaibhav Suryavanshi started the innings for Rajasthan Royals during the 188-run pursuit on Tuesday (May 20) against Chennai Super Kings at Arun Jaitley Stadium, Delhi and remained unbeaten on 57 off 33 deliveries. In his time at the crease, the 14-year-old left-handed batsman from Bihar smashed 4 fours and 4 sixes and made RR finish the IPL 2025 season on a dominating 6-wicket victory over the MS Dhoni-coached team.

This is the culture of India, Vaibhav Suryavanshi took blessings of MS Dhoni by touching his feet..🙏#CSKvsRR “Vaibhav Suryavanshi” #MumbaiRains Dhoni Kiara Parag Sanctions “Vaibhav Suryavanshi” Ahmedabad Thala pic.twitter.com/LD5OCNUGbE

— Aman (@amankant7333) May 20, 2025

Heartwarming Moment between MS Dhoni and Vaibhav Suryavanshi

Following his significant contribution to RR’s historic victory against CSK at Feroz Shah Kotla ground, Vaibhav Suryavanshi touched the feet of Dhoni during the post-match handshake between the players of both teams, and the video of that touching moment is now becoming a viral sensation on the internet.

Key Partnerships and Milestones

Vaibhav Suryavanshi contributed 37 runs with Yashasvi Jaiswal (36 off 19 balls) and 98 for the second wicket with Sanju Samson, who scored 41 off 31 balls and, in the process, also became the first player to reach 4000 runs in the IPL for the Rajasthan Royals.

IPL 2025 Season Recap for Rajasthan Royals

The game against CSK in Delhi on Tuesday was RR’s final league game of the current season, and the winners of the first edition concluded the campaign with a smile. For RR, Jaiswal was the top run-scorer in IPL 2025. He appeared in all 14 games and, thanks to six half-centuries, compiled a total of 559 runs. In the top run getters list, Mumbai-based batter, retained for Rs 18 crore before last year’s mega auction, was topped by Riyan Parag (393) and Dhruv Jurel (333).

In the top bowlers list, Wanindu Hasaranga, Jofra Archer and Maheesh Theekshana ended with 11 wickets each, while Sandeep Sharma and Tushar Deshpande took nine wickets each in 10 games for the Jaipur-based team.

MS Dhoni lauds CSK’s win over KKR, stays silent on IPL retirement plans: ‘Nothing to decide yet’

May 8, 2025, 1:16 am

MS Dhoni once again showcased his finishing touch as he guided Chennai Super Kings to a nerve-wracking two-wicket victory over Kolkata Knight Riders at Eden Gardens on Wednesday. The former India captain remained unbeaten on 17 off 18 balls and struck a six in the final over, helping CSK chase down a 180-run target with two balls and as many wickets in hand.

CSK appeared on the brink of their 10th loss this season after slipping to 60/5, but Dewald Brevis and Urvil Patel revived hopes with explosive batting. Brevis smashed 52 off 25 deliveries, including a blistering 30-run over off Vaibhav Arora, while Urvil chipped in with 31 off 11 to keep the chase alive.

Noor Ahmad’s four-wicket haul restricts KKR

Earlier in the match, left-arm spinner Noor Ahmad was the pick of the bowlers for CSK, returning figures of 4/31. His effort ensured that KKR, despite promising starts, could not breach the 200-run mark. They eventually settled for 179.

‘Mental toughness matters’: Dhoni reflects on win

Post-match, Dhoni praised his team’s resilience and attitude under pressure.

“When we started, hardly anyone was scoring. Good to see the batters have intent, important to back yourself and play the shots that you think are your shots. These are the players that are part of our squad right now, so we have an opportunity test them. We are out of the tournament, so you give them a chance, see how they react. It is the approach, the mental toughness that you want to check,” said Dhoni.

He acknowledged Brevis’ contribution in giving the team room to stretch the chase deep.

“Thanks to Brevis, he gave us that luxury (to take it deep). Did not want to give wickets to Sunil and Varun. It was holding for the spinners, but for the pacers, it was not that great and difficult for them to get away. Not to forget that I was the last batter, the tension becomes a lot (if I get out), so rotating strike (gets tougher),” he added.

Dhoni coy on retirement, thanks fans

With speculation rife about whether this IPL might be his last, Dhoni remained vague, instead focusing on the support he receives from fans across the country.

“That’s the love and affection I have got throughout, not to forget, I’m 43 and I have played for a long time. They don’t know when it will be my last year, it is a fact I play only 2 months a year. This IPL gets over, then I have to work for the next six-eight months to see if my body is able to take this kind of pressure,” Dhoni said.

“Nothing to decide as of now, but the love and affection I get everywhere is excellent,” he added.

KKR’s playoff hopes dented after sixth loss

With this defeat, KKR now face a tough route to the playoffs. This was their sixth loss in 11 games, and they must win both remaining fixtures to stay in contention—possibly depending on other results as well.

Captain Ajinkya Rahane admitted they fell short with the bat and could’ve posted a higher total. “It’s a tough thing to be on the losing side, I think we were 10-15 runs short. We thought 185-195 would have been an ideal total on this wicket, but I think it was a great game,” said Rahane.

He credited Brevis and Dube for turning the game in CSK’s favour. “Brevis and Dube they took their chances and it really paid off. No complaints but I think our bowlers bowled really well. It is pretty simple, now we have to win two out of two, let’s see what happens from here on,” Rahane added.

With CSK officially out of the playoff race, the team looks to finish the season on a high note, while fans continue to wait for clarity on Dhoni’s IPL future.

Why Royal Challengers Bengaluru Did Not Acquire MS Dhoni in the 2008 IPL Mega Auction

May 3, 2025, 9:41 pm

As Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) gear up to play Chennai Super Kings (CSK) for the last time in IPL 2025 at M Chinnaswamy Stadium on May 3, the legendary rivalry between these two original IPL sides takes center stage. While RCB have had Virat Kohli as their face of the team since 2008, CSK have kept their talisman, MS Dhoni, employed with them each year since the beginning of the league.

Dhoni Could Have Played for RCB

As long ago as 2008, RCB had the chance to sign up MS Dhoni during the first-ever IPL mega auction. Virat Kohli came to the Bengaluru franchise via the pre-auction U19 draft, whereas Dhoni refused to sign up with any franchise as an icon player prior to the auction. This left all franchises in the hunt to bid for India’s T20 World Cup-winning captain.

RCB, having already had Rahul Dravid as their icon player, went in to bid for Dhoni. But they lost out on him as a result of a blunder in the course of the auction.

RCB Underbid, Former Auctioneer Says

Former auctioneer Richard Madley, who conducted the 2008 IPL auction, came forward with an interview in 2021 to reveal that RCB lost the bid for signing Dhoni as they underbid.

This is the same bidding tablet RCB employed during the inaugural auction (holding up the pad on camera) and they were still referred to as Bengaluru then because the franchisees’ official names were not yet finalized. RCB underbid with this exact bidding tablet for MS Dhoni in the 2008 auction, quite remorsefully I might add,” Madley asserted.

CSK Outbid Opponents, Constructed a Legacy

Chennai Super Kings then signed up Dhoni, a move that dictated the future course of the franchise. Though Mumbai Indians (MI) were interested as well, their narrow purse did not allow them to top CSK’s bid. MI had already committed Sachin Tendulkar as an icon player, who, by virtue of IPL rules, was to receive 15% more than the team’s most expensive auction purchase—thus capping how much they could bid for Dhoni.

With Dhoni at the helm, CSK went on to become one of the most successful teams in IPL history, winning five titles and consistently reaching the playoffs.

Dhoni Still Leads in IPL 2025

Even though Dhoni relinquished the full-time captaincy ahead of the 2024 season, he is back to captain CSK this year as Ruturaj Gaikwad has suffered an injury. At the age of 43, Dhoni remains the strategic mastermind of the team, making CSK competitive each season

Suresh Raina Drops Hint on MS Dhoni’s IPL 2026 Future

April 27, 2025, 8:19 pm

Chennai Super Kings are halfway through a dismal Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 season where they find themselves at the bottom of the table with two victories in nine encounters so far. Though hopes of a playoff push exist only mathematically, the performances have set off a debate over whether the franchise is facing a potential radical overhaul before the next season. There are also doubts regarding the future of MS Dhoni, but if CSK’s ‘Chinna Thala’ Suresh Raina is to be believed, Dhoni will remain for at least another season.

Suresh Raina Critiques CSK’s Overall Performance

Looking at CSK’s campaign, Suresh Raina pointed out how abysmal the team has been in nearly every department, whether it was fielding, batting, or bowling. For Raina, the platform for the upcoming season would be set on the auction table for the franchise.

“I hope that next season, they (CSK) come with better planning. And Dhoni is going to play for one more season, for sure,” Suresh Raina said in a chat with sports presenter Jatin Sapru in a video on his YouTube channel.

Dhoni’s Limited Role in Auction Decisions

Reviewing CSK’s mega auction, Raina stated that MS Dhoni apparently didn’t have any say in the purchases the management chose before the 18th edition.

“They always say MS Dhoni makes the final call. But to be very honest, I never attended any of the auctions. I was never a part of those discussions. I always talked about the players who were retained. MS might get a call about whether to go ahead with a player or not – but he’s not that involved,” he said.

“The core group handles the auction – you can imagine, Dhoni can’t have this type of auction. He would maybe name four or five players he wants, and out of them, a few would be retained. Even if an uncapped player is working hard, look at MS Dhoni–being a 43-year-old captain, still giving everything.”

Raina Defends Dhoni but Questions Other Players

Dhoni himself has not come up with many match-winning innings for CSK this season, but Raina is not looking for that from a 43-year-old. The ex-India and CSK batsman is content watching Dhoni keep wickets, lead the team, and attempt his bit with the bat but also looks for the remaining 10 players to contribute as well.

“He’s playing just for the brand, for his name, for the fandom – and still putting in the effort. At 43, he’s doing wicketkeeping, captaining, carrying the entire team on his shoulders. But what are the other ten players doing?

“Those who are paid 18 crores, 17 crores, 12 crores – they’re not responding to the captain. Especially when you’ve never lost to certain teams before – that needs to be rectified. You have to identify – is this player a match-winner? Can I trust this player in the next match? There are players who’ve been playing there for years – even the older ones. But what are the results? You’re losing. The same mistakes are happening every time.

“I think MS Dhoni will now sit down – he won’t want anyone around him. He knows CSK didn’t buy properly in auction. MS wouldn’t have allowed it. He must have made up his mind. “After the toss, when they lost, the way he walked – and both of them were standing there – it’s clear there’s going to be a meeting today,” he added.

Thala Meets Thala: Ajith Kumar Cheers for Dhoni at Chepauk with Family

April 26, 2025, 3:03 am

Star actor Ajith Kumar stole the show in the Chepauk Stadium as he was seen attending the CSK vs SRH match on Friday night. The actor is riding high with the success of his recent release Good Bad Ugly, which went great in theatres across the world. Ajith came accompanied by son Advaik, who was sitting on his lap.

Ajith Kumar Watches IPL Match with Family

Some photographs from the match coverage, which had Ajith Kumar observing the tournament closely was posted on X (formerly Twitter). Ajith dressed smartly in a black T-shirt, and in one of the photographs, he was standing with his wife Shalini and son Advaik. Their son perched on the lap of Ajith Kumar as the entire family watched the match in earnest and behold MS Dhoni play.

A little while later, actor Sivakarthikeyan was also spotted in the same strand, sitting right next to Ajith. The two stars had a common interest, cricket, and were spotted conversing intermittently.

More Details

Ajith marked his 25 years of marriage with his wife Shalini on April 24. Shalini posted on Instagram and shared a video of their 25th wedding anniversary celebration. The two enjoyed a modest cake-cutting ceremony and were spotted feeding cake to one another in the cute video.

Ajith Kumar started dating Shalini on the set of Saran’s Amarkalam in 1999. The two married in a small wedding in April 2000 at Chennai. They had their daughter in 2008 and their son in 2015.

Ajith’s recent release was action-comedy Good Bad Ugly, which was helmed by Adhik Ravichandran and produced by Mythri Movie Makers. The movie is about an ex-gangster who reverts to his violent past after his son gets wrongly convicted. The movie has Trisha Krishnan, Arjun Das, Sunil, Karthikeya Dev, Priya Prakash Varrier, Prabhu, Prasanna, Tinnu Anand and Raghu Ram in significant roles, alongside Ajith Kumar. It became the top-grossing Tamil movie of 2025 with a worldwide collection of ₹227 crore.

MS Dhoni Plays 400th T20 Match in IPL 2025, Joins Virat & Rohit in Elite List

April 25, 2025, 9:26 pm

MS Dhoni, captain of Chennai Super Kings, stepped into the MA Chidambaram Stadium under a thunderous welcome on Friday, April 25. Playing his 400th T20 match with the Sunrisers Hyderabad match, Dhoni equaled an amazing record of sorts.

MS Dhoni Enters Exclusive List of Indian Cricketers

On Friday, Dhoni was the 4th Indian cricketer to appear in his 400th T20 game of his career. Rohit Sharma, Dinesh Karthik, and Virat Kohli were the others who have done it before Dhoni. The CSK captain legend, one of the greatest performers of all time, stepped out as the franchise’s captain, a position which has been handed over to him owing to the injury to Ruturaj Gaikwad in the early stages of this season.

Brilliant T20 Career of MS Dhoni

Dhoni possesses a remarkable record in the T20 format. He has scored 7,566 runs at a strike rate of 136 and has led Chennai to 5 Indian Premier League titles as captain. Post-retirement, Dhoni’s capability to bat for extended durations has significantly declined, and currently, the batter attempts to play short and influential innings.Dhoni’s Contribution to CSK’s Batting Crisis

However, in the 2025 season of the tournament, Dhoni has been forced to bat up the order due to CSK’s batting crisis and the mounting criticism when a section of the fans questioned his contribution in the batting line-up in the first few games of the season. Other than the Indian Premier League, MS Dhoni has also won two Champions League trophies with the Chennai Super Kings.

Indian Players To Play 400 T20 Matches

Rohit Sharma: 456
Dinesh Karthik: 412
Virat Kohli: 408
MS Dhoni: 400

CSK’s Struggles in the 2025 Season

Chennai Super Kings have had a tough season so far under MS Dhoni’s captaincy. He was forced to take over early in the season after Ruturaj broke his right forearm against Rajasthan Royals. Dhoni’s leadership has yet to solve CSK’s issues, with the team struggling to score runs this season.

The captain has shown vintage form behind the stumps, making age-defying stumps in many games this year. He has also batted higher up the order, attempting to make a difference to the best of his abilities.

MS Dhoni Recreates Jadeja’s Sword Celebration, Fans Go Wild

April 19, 2025, 2:57 pm

MS Dhoni made the internet glow once again this time, but not with his bat, rather with a light-hearted move that captured the hearts of the people. At a recent public function, Dhoni was spotted mimicking Ravindra Jadeja’s signature sword celebration, a gesture that has become identified with the flashy all-rounder over the years.

Photos from the incident went viral on all social media sites soon, with MS Dhoni spinning an imaginary bat in Jadeja’s signature fashion. The moment, whilst lighthearted, brought forth an avalanche of nostalgia and respect from fans who still hold dear the unbreakable connection between the two CSK sensations.

A Tribute from ‘Thala’

Known for his stoic presence and understated demeanor, MS Dhoni rarely indulges in animated antics off the field. This display, therefore, was a surprise to many and one that carried a deeper emotional undertone. Ravindra Jadeja has been one of Dhoni’s closest allies on the field, playing several crucial roles in CSK’s IPL campaigns, including delivering a memorable last-ball win in the IPL 2023 final.

The sword dance traditionally done by Jadeja on crossing a milestone or for a game-changing performance has been a fan favorite for years. Dhoni emulated the same as a light-hearted tribute to his teammate and a reflection of the esprit de corps that has defined the CSK dressing room for years.

Internet Melts in Response to Word Celebration by MS Dhoni

Within hours of the photos going public, fan reactions poured onto platforms such as X (formerly Twitter) and Instagram. Many fans referred to it as “the most wholesome cricket moment of the year,” and others welcomed the “Thala-Thalapathy” bonding a play on the affectionate Tamil names for MS Dhoni and filmstar Vijay, representing leadership and charm.

Memes, montages, and fan edits followed swiftly, many combining Dhoni’s sword twirl with iconic Jadeja moments, while others called for a special celebration between the two in one of the upcoming IPL games.

CSK Brotherhood on Display Between MS Dhoni and Jadeja

MS Dhoni and Jadeja’s camaraderie has been the most discussed pair in Indian cricket over the last few years. Although there were fleeting rumors of discord earlier during CSK’s captaincy overhaul, the pair have repeatedly put critics to rest with gestures of mutual respect.

As the season of IPL 2025 goes on, fans will be expecting more such endearing moments both on and off the pitch from a team that has never been merely about cricket, but also about legacy, loyalty, and passion for the game.

Why Sunday’s El Clasico Could Be a Nightmare for Dhoni’s CSK

April 18, 2025, 7:21 am

The second high-voltage clash between Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and Mumbai Indians (MI) in IPL 2025 will unfold this Sunday, 20 April, at the Wankhede Stadium. The pressure is high on CSK, led by MS Dhoni, who are struggling to stay in the playoff race.

Dhoni’s Injury Raises Concerns

All eyes are once again on Dhoni, who appeared to be limping after reaching Mumbai. His long-standing knee troubles seem to have flared up again. This has raised fresh doubts about his fitness ahead of this crucial game.

Chennai Super Kings have had a difficult campaign so far. Although they ended a five-match losing streak with a win over Lucknow Super Giants, their position remains shaky. CSK have collected just 4 points from 7 matches, and their Net Run Rate (NRR) of -1.276 is the worst among all teams.

To reach the playoffs, teams usually need at least 16 points. CSK can reach 18 if they win all of their remaining matches, but that will be a steep climb. Up next is a red-hot MI side, and that won’t make things any easier.

MI Gathering Steam Under Pandya

On the other hand, Mumbai Indians have bounced back strongly. After winning only one of their first five matches, they’ve now notched up two wins in a row. Hardik Pandya is leading from the front with both the bat and ball.

Pandya currently shares second place on the wicket-takers list with 11 wickets. He is also batting with a strike rate close to 170. His all-round form makes him a serious threat. CSK will have to come up with something special to contain him.

Wankhede Woes for CSK

Despite a strong overall record against MI, CSK haven’t had much luck at Wankhede. This venue is known as MI’s stronghold. Recently, MI crushed the powerful Sunrisers Hyderabad lineup here.

So far, CSK have played 12 matches against MI at this ground, winning 5 and losing 7. However, the last time they met here, CSK won by 20 runs and posted their highest score of 206 at Wankhede. That said, MI were in poor form that season, finishing at the bottom of the table. This year, things are different.

Batting Struggles Continue for CSK

The Wankhede pitch usually favors batters, but CSK’s batting lineup has not lived up to expectations. They haven’t chased a total of 180 or more since 2019. Their top-order woes have deepened with the loss of captain Ruturaj Gaikwad due to injury.

Gaikwad has been a consistent performer for CSK. His absence leaves a major gap. The middle-order, including Vijay Shankar, Shivam Dube, and Ravindra Jadeja, has also struggled this season.

Overall Rivalry: MI Hold the Edge

Out of 40 encounters, MI have won 21 matches, while CSK have claimed victory in 19. The rivalry remains close, but MI maintain a slight advantage. Even so, Dhoni’s presence brings hope. He has looked solid with the bat this season, scoring 130 runs in 7 innings at a strike rate close to 160. In the recent match against LSG, he played a match-winning cameo—26 runs off 11 balls with a strike rate of 236.

Momentum with Mumbai

However, momentum is firmly on Mumbai’s side. In their last outing, Pandya finished the match with a blistering 29 off just 9 balls at a strike rate of 233.33. If CSK fail to fix their batting issues, particularly during the powerplay, they could be in serious trouble again at Wankhede.

MS Dhoni Ruled Out of IPL 2025? Limping Video After CSK Win Raises Fans’ Concerns | Watch

April 16, 2025, 3:41 am

MS Dhoni turned the clock back with a mesmerizing 26* off only 11 balls to lead Chennai Super Kings (CSK) to a nail-biting five-wicket victory over Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) in IPL 2025 at Lucknow on Monday. His match-winning innings featured four boundaries and a six, leading CSK to post a successful 167-run chase in 19.3 overs. The victory also stopped CSK’s five-match losing streak.

Earlier in the match, Dhoni also contributed on the field with a sharp run out. However, concern grew after the match when he was seen limping, raising questions about his fitness.

pic.twitter.com/QQA1gRGOC6

— CSK Korner™ (@dhonsim140024) April 15, 2025

Ruled Out of the next match? MS Dhoni was limping after the CSK vs LSG match on Tuesday, if he too does not play next match, it will be a big blow for CSK in IPL 2025#IPL2025

— LePakad7???? (@AreBabaRe2) April 15, 2025

Experts praise Dhoni’s grit despite fitness concerns

Former India all-rounder Sanjay Bangar praised Dhoni’s determination, saying, “MS Dhoni was not in his best physical shape. he still pushed through and found the strength to come out and perform the way he did.” He added that Dhoni’s composure in crunch moments was key to CSK’s win.

Bangar also noted Dhoni’s struggle while running between the wickets but highlighted how he remained calm and stitched a crucial stand with Shivam Dube, who scored 43* off 37 balls.

MSD’s presence at the crease remains ‘priceless’

Former pacer Varun Aaron also shared similar views, saying, “Having MS Dhoni at the crease is priceless, especially towards the end.” He credited the successful chase to a realistic target posted by the top order, as opposed to earlier matches.

Aaron also criticized LSG’s death bowling, saying, “They could have been better. not giving Ravi Bishnoi that over is going to hurt them.”

MS Dhoni Run-Out vs LSG Dismissed as ‘Tukka’ by Ex-CSK Cricketer | Watch

April 15, 2025, 11:15 am

MS Dhoni stunned everyone with an excellent run-out to send off Abdul Samad in the IPL 2025 match between Lucknow Super Giants and Chennai Super Kings on Monday. Dhoni collected the ball at the back of the stumps and was able to hit the stumps at the non-striker’s end with an underarm throw. It was trademark Dhoni because his endeavor earned him huge cheers from the audience and also received appreciation from the commentators.

Former CSK Player Robin Uthappa on MS Dhoni’s Run out

Former Indian cricket team wicket-keeper batter Robin Uthappa, however, believed that it was a ‘tukka’ (fluke) by Dhoni that he managed to send the stumps flying from that distance.

IPL match CSK vs LSG… it was a Dhoni show all the way. A good catch, a brilliant DRS, and then this run out…. a quick fire 26 to win the match was icing on the cake. Do watch his celebratory smile at the end of the video. He is still the best wicktkeeper in the world. pic.twitter.com/BRQBejl9pF

— CMA Amit Apte (@AmitApte71) April 15, 2025

MS Dhoni Reaches 200 IPL Dismissals

Chennai Super Kings skipper MS Dhoni added one more feather to his cap in his exemplary career and further engraved his name in the history of cricket by becoming the first player in the Indian Premier League (IPL) history to achieve 200 fielding dismissals. Dhoni reached the milestone in the Chennai Super Kings match against Lucknow Super Giants on Monday at the Bharat Ratna Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee Ekana Cricket Stadium.

A Heroic Dismissal by MS Dhoni

After his heroics behind the wickets in Lucknow in the 14th over, the experienced wicketkeeper made the first player to write the feat in his name. Ayush Badoni, who was attempting to accelerate the flow of runs in the middle overs, came out of the crease while attempting to attack Ravindra Jadeja. But Jadeja, who had the experience, used his line and pace to edge Badoni’s bat. Dhoni, at lightning speed, picked up the ball and lit up the bails in an instant by kicking them off the stumps.

MS Dhoni Crosses the 200-Dismissal Mark

Dhoni crossed the 200-dismissal barrier in his 271st IPL outing by successfully completing the catch of his counterpart Rishabh Pant in the last over as LSG shut their innings on 166/7. The veteran wicketkeeper batter has 201 dismissals, including 155 catches and 46 stumpings.

MS Dhoni’s Leadership in the IPL Match

Old wicketkeeper Dinesh Karthik holds the second position with 182 wickets to his credit. Royal Challengers Bengaluru legend AB de Villiers is placed in the third position with 126 wickets in his kitty.

In his record-breaking match, Dhoni won the toss and opted to bowl Lucknow out. Except for a 50-run partnership between Mitchell Marsh (30 in 25 balls, two fours and two sixes) and captain Pant, there was not much notable for LSG in the first half. Pant finished well with a half-century, 63 off 49 balls, four boundaries, and four sixes. Pant also put on 53 for Abdul Samad (20 off 11 balls, two sixes) towards the end, which helped LSG reach 166/7 in its 20 overs. Ravindra Jadeja (2/24) and Matheesha Pathirana (2/45) were CSK’s best bowlers.

MS Dhoni Wins Man Of The Match vs LSG, Says: “Why Are They Giving Me the Award?”

April 15, 2025, 10:26 am

Chennai Super Kings captain MS Dhoni was left stunned after he was presented with the Player Of The Match award after the victory against Lucknow Super Giants on Monday. Dhoni hit 26 off mere 11 balls with the support of 4 fours and a six to help his team finish an electrifying run chase. Due to his brilliant performance, Dhoni emerged as the oldest winner of the Man of the Match award in the history of IPL. Yet, he commented that he did not expect it and even reminded that a player like CSK spinner Noor Ahmad also should have received it for his brilliant performance. “Even today I was like – “why are they giving me the award ?”Noor bowled really well,” Dhoni added during the post-match presentation.

Chennai Super Kings (CSK) are currently placed at the bottom of the points table of IPL 2025 with only their second victory.

MS Dhoni Reflects on the Team’s Struggles

“It’s good to win a game. When you play a tournament like this, you want to win games. Unfortunately the [earlier] matches didn’t go our way for whatever reasons. There can be lots of reasons. It’s good to have a win on our side. Gives confidence to the whole team and helps us improve in areas we want to improve. We all knew that when it doesn’t come your way in cricket, God makes it very tough, and it was a tough game. If you see the powerplay, whether it was the combination or the conditions, we were struggling with the ball. And then we weren’t able to get the start we wanted as a batting unit.”

Pitch Conditions and Batting Concerns

“Also the fall of wickets. We keep losing wickets at the wrong time to some extent. One of the reasons could be that the Chennai wicket is slightly on the slower side. When we have played away from home, the batting unit has done slightly better. Maybe we need to play on wickets that are slightly better so that it’ll give the batters confidence to play their shots. You don’t want to play timid cricket.”

MS Dhoni on Bowling Adjustments and Player Praise

“We were putting too much pressure on Ash. He was bowling two overs in the first six. We made changes and this looks like a better attack. As a bowling unit we’ve done well. As a batting unit, we can do better. Roles and responsibilities – that’s what we talk about. If you get off to a good start, and you’re someone who can play through the innings, then why not. I think he batted really well today.”

“He has been with us for quite a few years (Shaik Rasheed). This year he has been batting really well in the nets against both pacers and spinners. It’s just the start. He has the capability to dominate with authentic shots,” the former Indian cricket team captain added.

Dhoni Explains Why Ashwin Was Dropped Against LSG

April 15, 2025, 6:39 am

Chennai Super Kings (CSK) captain MS Dhoni revealed why veteran off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin did not feature in the playing XI against Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) in IPL 2025.

Ashwin’s Struggles This Season

Ashwin returned to CSK this year after the team bought him for ₹9.75 crore. It was a big move, marking his comeback to Chepauk. However, his performances did not meet expectations.

So far, Ashwin had played six games. He took just five wickets. His average was 39.6. Moreover, his economy rate climbed to 9.90. He leaked 90 runs in six powerplay overs and took only one wicket during that phase.

Naturally, fans and former cricketers criticized his form. With CSK losing five matches in a row, the team had to make bold decisions.

Tactical Changes for CSK

Ahead of the game in Lucknow, CSK made multiple changes. They dropped Ashwin. In his place, they picked Jamie Overton. This move added batting power and kept an extra bowling option.

After the match, Dhoni spoke about the change. He said, “We were putting too much pressure on Ash. He was bowling two overs in the first six. We made changes, and this looks like a better attack. As a bowling unit, we’ve done well. As a batting unit, we can do better. Roles and responsibilities – that’s what we talk about.”

Conway Out, Rasheed In

CSK also left out New Zealand opener Devon Conway. In a previous game against Punjab Kings, CSK had retired him out for Jadeja. For this match, 20-year-old Shaik Rasheed took Conway’s spot.

CSK’s Strong Start, Mid-Innings Collapse

LSG batted first. Captain Rishabh Pant played a key role. He scored 63 off 49 balls and helped LSG reach 166/7.

In response, CSK started well. Rasheed and Rachin Ravindra built a 52-run partnership. They looked confident early on. However, CSK soon lost wickets. By the 15th over, they were struggling at 111/5.

Dhoni and Dube Steer CSK to Victory

At this stage, Dhoni joined Shivam Dube at the crease. Dube played a calm, composed innings. Dhoni, on the other hand, showed glimpses of his old brilliance. He scored a quick 26 not out from just 11 balls. Dube also remained unbeaten on 43. Eventually, Dube hit the winning runs.

CSK won the match by five wickets. With this victory, they finally ended their five-game losing streak.

Virender Sehwag Reacts to MS Dhoni’s Dismissal in IPL 2025 | Watch

April 12, 2025, 1:45 pm

MS Dhoni’s contentious dismissal polarized social media during Chennai Super Kings’ IPL 2025 match against Kolkata Knight Riders in Chennai on Friday. Dhoni walked out to bat at No. 8, following R Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja, but was dismissed for only 1. In the 16th over of the CSK innings, Dhoni was beaten by Sunil Narine’s delivery, which crashed into his pads. The on-field umpire signaled the dismissal, but Dhoni immediately asked for a review. There was very little spike in the UltraEdge when the ball passed the bat, but the third umpire chose to remain with the original decision. This call generated a lot of buzz on social media, with many criticizing the third umpire’s decision.

Virender Sehwag Weighs In on Dhoni’s Dismissal

Later, Virender Sehwag was questioned about whether the decision would have made a difference had Dhoni not been given out. Sehwag responded, “I don’t think it would have made a difference had MS Dhoni been given not out. Had he been not out, how much would CSK have gotten to? Maximum 130? So, by when did KKR chase down the target (10.1 overs)? We would have analyzed the match at 11:30 pm instead of now. That would have been the only difference.”

pic.twitter.com/wshK1HF3T3

— not psyduck (@psymedia33) April 11, 2025

Sunil Narine Reflects on His Performance and Game Strategy

Talking about the match, Sunil Narine said, “Almost (a complete game), next time hope I can take a catch as well (Narine dropped Vijay Shankar’s catch on zero). I try to focus on my strengths. Batters play well, but if you focus too much on batters, you are already on the back foot. You get accustomed and try to adapt as soon as possible. You see what happens in the power-play and try and help the team. It’s very simple – trying to get the team off to a flying start. Sometimes it works, sometimes it doesn’t,” said Narine, the Player of the Match awardee, after the game ended.

Moeen Ali Credits Team Effort for CSK’s Struggles

Moeen Ali, who bowled an efficient spell of 1-20 and contained CSK batsmen, lauded the way other bowlers and fielders assisted him in keeping a stranglehold on the five-time champions. “Having two left-handers helped my case. Kept as straight as possible. Rinku dived and stopped four early, which helped my confidence.”

“In power-play, you cannot bowl quick. Give it time to spin. Sometimes it skids on, sometimes it spins. Sunil has been outstanding for a long time. If I can bowl a couple of overs at the top and save them for later, it helps. I am learning from them. At the top, you can’t spin every ball. You just need one to grip, and that puts doubts in the batters’ minds,” he added.

Defending champions KKR will now enjoy some time off before taking on Punjab Kings at the Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket Stadium in New Chandigarh on April 15.

MS Dhoni’s Controversial Dismissal Sparks Debate: Was the CSK Legend Out or Not?

April 12, 2025, 3:31 am

Chepauk on Friday fueled furious discussion on social media. The CSK star came out to bat at No. 8—following the likes of R Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja—but could only muster 1 run before being given out LBW in the 16th over.

Sunil Narine bowled the delivery which beat Dhoni and hit his pads. The on-field umpire signaled, and Dhoni chose to go for a DRS review straightaway. UltraEdge indicated weak spikes as the ball made contact with the bat, but the third umpire declined the on-field call. The incident provoked an online storm, with followers and pundits objecting to the decision.

The ball clearly touched the bat .. it's Not Out…#Dhoni #KKRvsCSK #KKRvCSK pic.twitter.com/Ac5v0IqOCt

— Songs Lover (@Songs_Lover_) April 11, 2025

Ipl match fixing proof.
Dhoni is clearly not out but given out by 3rd umpire.#fixing #ipl2025 #matchfixing #Dhoni pic.twitter.com/29DcuH7Nrz

— Aditya007 (@AdityaSaha007) April 11, 2025

CSK post lowest home total in IPL history

CSK’s woes did not stop there. The team crumbled to 103/9 in 20 overs, their worst-ever score at home and the third-worst in franchise history. The total was also the lowest team total of IPL 2025 until then.

KKR’s bowlers performed a masterclass, with Sunil Narine finishing on 3/13, while Harshit Rana and Varun Chakravarthy took two wickets each. The Super Kings struggled all through the innings, getting just nine boundaries in total.

The lone shining star was Shivam Dube, who hit an unbeaten 31 from 29 balls. Vijay Shankar chipped in with 29, but he was fortunate to last after initial opportunities. Only two other CSK batters made double digits in a dismal innings for the side.

This comprehensive defeat means CSK’s run of poor form continues, and KKR continue to strengthen their top-table position in IPL 2025.

IPL 2025: MS Dhoni’s Captaincy Comeback Ends in Crushing Defeat as KKR Dominate CSK

April 12, 2025, 2:50 am

Leading Chennai Super Kings against Kolkata Knight Riders on Friday in Match 25 of IPL 2025 at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai, MS Dhoni’s eagerly awaited return as captain turned into a disaster as CSK suffered a ignominious defeat.

Chennai slumped to 103/9 in 20 overs batting first, their worst-ever IPL total at home. From the beginning, the team battled with the batting order crumbling under constant bombardment from the Kolkata Knight Riders’ bowling arsenal. Walking in at No. 9, Dhoni could only one run before being eliminated, further exacerbating the misery of the team.

Narine heads the bowling attack; KKR controls the late pursuit

Sunil Narine claimed three wickets and Varun Chakravarthy and Harshit Rana got two each, so Kolkata’s bowling unit performed expertly. Together, they took apart the CSK batting order, setting KKR a rather low goal to run.

Responding, KKR coasted to 107/2 in 10.1 overs, clinching a commanding win and moving to third place on the points table. Their forceful powerplay strategy gave CSK no room to recover.

The win reflects Kolkata’s decisive attitude in this season’s campaign, whereas CSK trail ninth and Dhoni leads a revival, hence serious doubts about their style and form.

With this humiliating loss, CSK will, going into their next games as the competition furthers, have to recover and reevaluate.

MS Dhoni Returns as CSK Captain, Breaks Two Major IPL Records

April 11, 2025, 7:44 pm

MS Dhoni, the legendary ‘Thala’ of Chennai Super Kings, wrote fresh history in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 as he came back to captain the team in their encounter against Kolkata Knight Riders at Chepauk. With CSK’s first-choice captain Ruturaj Gaikwad being out for the season following a hairline fracture on his elbow, captaincy duties by default fell once again on Dhoni — an IPL-winning five-time captain.

First ‘Uncapped’ Player to Lead in IPL

Though one of the most experienced cricketers in the history of the tournament, Dhoni attached an unexpected label to his name this season — that of an ‘uncapped’ player. This follows the introduction of a new rule by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) before IPL 2025.

According to the new guidelines, players who have not played for India at the international level in the last five years are now officially considered ‘uncapped.’ MS Dhoni, who has not played for India since 2019, comes under this category and, hence, becomes the first uncapped player in the history of the IPL to lead a franchise.

Oldest Captain in IPL History

Dhoni also shattered another of his records when he became the oldest captain in IPL history. At the age of 43, he broke his own record set during IPL 2023 when he was CSK’s captain at 41 years and 325 days.

Chennai Super Kings head coach Stephen Fleming confirmed Dhoni didn’t hesitate to come forward as captain once Gaikwad was out.

“He had no hesitation to step up and assist us in getting out of this if we can,” Fleming said. “So that was never a doubt.

He also indicated that the team could look at internal options to reinforce the team, but he recognized Dhoni’s leadership as a big positive going forward.

“We’ll consider replacements. We’ve got some good players in the squad who have been with us for a while, so we’ll consider from within first.”

Dhoni’s return to captaincy gives CSK a familiar spark as they seek to find their momentum this season.

MS Dhoni Returns as CSK Captain, Fans Roast MI for Dropping Rohit Sharma

April 11, 2025, 6:52 pm

In a sudden turn of events, Chennai Super Kings (CSK) have reappointed MS Dhoni as captain following Ruturaj Gaikwad’s ruling out for the rest of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 season. CSK has just one win in five games and stands at No. 9 on the points table currently, and the management has resorted to the legendary Dhoni in a bid to bring their campaign back on track.

Dhoni Rejoins as CSK Captain During Struggles

The return of Dhoni to the captaincy role has created enormous debates on the internet, with fans praising CSK’s decision while also comparing it to how Mumbai Indians (MI) have approached their leadership change. While CSK continues to bank on Dhoni’s experience at 43, MI has replaced Rohit Sharma, even though he has five IPL titles in the franchise.

MI have named Hardik Pandya as captain and Suryakumar Yadav as vice-captain. Interestingly, Rohit, the most successful skipper of the IPL era, has been demoted to the status of an Impact Substitute this season. This glaring difference in leadership decisions between the two legendary franchises has generated a heated debate among fans.

Leadership Contrasts Between CSK and MI Go Viral

On social media, people highlighted how CSK still holds Dhoni’s tactical abilities and leadership presence in high regard, while MI is planning to transition away from Rohit despite his immense experience.

POV: After Seeing CSK Captain Changing News!!

MI Camp be like~ pic.twitter.com/4qwxtJ6pvR

— Surya (@SuryaDhoni_07) April 10, 2025

Rohit at 35 – Sacked as Captain by MI

Dhoni at 43 – Called by CSK to lead again ? pic.twitter.com/xJqgTcGMYV

— Video Memes (@VideoMemes_VM) April 10, 2025

CSK have not found a replacement for Captain MS Dhoni in past 3 years.
Mumbai Indians are just another RCB without Captain Rohit Sharma.

Those 10 Trophies are not fluke. History will never see captains like them again. pic.twitter.com/nyrOO4tS8k

— Selfless⁴⁵ (@SelflessCricket) April 10, 2025

Dhoni initially led CSK from the league’s inception in 2008 through to 2023, winning five IPL titles and making the franchise a force to be reckoned with. Before IPL 2024, he transferred the captaincy duties to Gaikwad. But with Gaikwad out of action, the franchise has revisited its most reliable commander.

As the tournament progresses, all eyes will be on Dhoni to see if he can steer CSK back into contention — and whether MI’s bold leadership shift will pay off.

KL Rahul Joins Dhoni, Rohit, Pant Among IPL’s Most Explosive Batters

April 11, 2025, 2:25 pm

KL Rahul again showed why he’s among the most reliable match-winners in the IPL. The Delhi Capitals batter hit an unbeaten 93* off 53 deliveries against Royal Challengers Bengaluru, helping his side coast to an easy six-wicket victory. This innings was also the sixth time Rahul has hit 20 or more runs in an IPL over, putting him along with Indian cricket’s most explosive batsmen.

A Spot Among India’s IPL Power-Hitters For KL Rahul

KL Rahul has joined the exclusive list of Suryakumar Yadav, Hardik Pandya, and Rishabh Pant each of whom have achieved this milestone six times. It is headed by the great MS Dhoni, who has achieved this feat 10 times, followed by Rohit Sharma and Rishabh Pant with eight each.

MS Dhoni (10 times): The Chennai Super Kings legend has built a career out of winning games with bursts of boundaries. His aggressive planning and unparalleled composure have enabled him to do this more than any other Indian.
Rohit Sharma & Rishabh Pant (8 each): Rohit, the five-time IPL champion captain, has been a power at the top of the order, while Pant’s aggressive brand of cricket has made him boss the bowling units in the middle overs.
Suryakumar Yadav & Hardik Pandya (6 each): SKY’s 360-degree cricket and Hardik’s all-round power-packed hitting make them death-overs regular threats.

Now, KL Rahul’s name shines among these Indian big-hitters, again demonstrating his adaptability as a T20 batsman.

KL Rahul Shows Calm Brilliance at the Chinnaswamy

Rahul’s innings against RCB was a masterclass in the art of pacing a chase. Walking in when DC were struggling at 58/4, he waited for his time before going after the RCB bowling attack. His innings contained seven boundaries and three huge sixes, one over alone giving 21 runs his sixth such over in IPL history.

Setting the Tone for IPL 2025

With this performance, Rahul not only powered DC to their fourth consecutive win but also sent a clear message to critics who questioned his intent in T20s. As the league stage intensifies, his form could prove vital for Delhi’s playoff ambitions.

Rahul’s reliability, finisher skills, and improved aggression make him one of IPL 2025’s most vital players and his name now shines as brightly as that of Indian stalwarts who have redefined the art of T20 batting.

Ruturaj Gaikwad Reacts as Dhoni Takes Over CSK Captaincy in IPL 2025 | Watch

April 11, 2025, 10:42 am

A bout of bad luck dashed Ruturaj Gaikwad’s dream of guiding Chennai Super Kings through choppy waters on Thursday, as the CSK captain suffered a hairline fracture to his elbow during a match against Rajasthan Royals, ruling him out of the rest of IPL 2025. While the CSK was struggling with a four-match losing streak, the injury was a big setback, considering Gaikwad was still one of CSK’s key batters in a team that has been struggling to chase targets this season.

Stephen Fleming Confirms Absence of Ruturaj Gaikwad

Head coach Stephen Fleming has confirmed Gaikwad’s absence during the pre-match press conference before their encounter with Kolkata Knight Riders at the MA Chidambaram Stadium.

In Gaikwad’s absence, all eyes now fall on MS Dhoni, who will resume captaincy responsibilities for the first time since guiding CSK to a memorable IPL 2023 title.

Ruturaj Gaikwad Posts Heartfelt Message

The 28-year-old Gaikwad took to CSK’s social media to express his disappointment and gratitude. “I am really gutted to miss the rest of the IPL due to an unfortunate elbow injury. I want to thank everyone for your support so far, it truly means a lot,” he said in a heartfelt video message.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Chennai Super Kings (@chennaiipl)

CSK’s title challenge has taken a turn since their initial success over Mumbai Indians. Currently trailing ninth on the points table with two points and a negative net run rate of -0.889, they badly needed Gaikwad’s stability and runs at the top.

Ruturaj Gaikwad on MS Dhoni

In his absence, Gaikwad is banking on MS Dhoni CSK’s talisman and on a lighter note, dubbed him the “young wicketkeeper” who would captain the side.

“Yes, it’s been a challenging season, but we’ve got a young wicketkeeper leading the team now, and hopefully things will turn around. I’ll be right there with the squad, supporting them from the dugout,” he said with a smile.

“I would’ve loved to help lift the team out of this situation, but some things are simply out of our control. Looking forward to backing the boys for the rest of the campaign, here’s to a strong finish to the season,” Gaikwad added.

With the wall against it, the return of Dhoni at the helm could prove to be the boost CSK needs to spark a turnaround.

Captain Cool is Back! MS Dhoni to Lead CSK Again from Today’s KKR Clash After Gaikwad’s Injury

April 11, 2025, 4:35 am

Chennai Super Kings have announced that MS Dhoni will captain the side again in IPL 2025 following regular skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad’s exclusion for the rest of the tournament. CSK’s night before their encounter against Kolkata Knight Riders saw their head coach Stephen Fleming announce that Gaikwad had sustained a left elbow fracture.

“Ruturaj Gaikwad excluded the IPL due to a fracture on his elbow. We have an uncapped player, MS Dhoni, who will be replacing him as captain in the rest of the games,” Fleming was quoted by saying during a press interaction in Chennai on Thursday.

“We are disappointed and feel for him. We appreciate the efforts that he has made in terms of trying to play, but unfortunately, he will be out of the tournament,” Fleming added.

Fleming has confirmed that Ruturaj Gaikwad is ruled out of IPL 2025 ?? pic.twitter.com/a1UicAZ6uB

— VIREN (@virendrareshmi) April 10, 2025

A few minutes later, CSK released an official confirmation of the news, declaring, “Ruturaj Gaikwad ruled out of the season due to a hairline fracture of the elbow.”

? OFFICIAL STATEMENT ?

Ruturaj Gaikwad ruled out of the season due to a hairline fracture of the elbow.

MS DHONI TO LEAD. ?

GET WELL SOON, RUTU ! ✨ ?#WhistlePodu #Yellove?? pic.twitter.com/U0NsVhKlny

— Chennai Super Kings (@ChennaiIPL) April 10, 2025

Injury Traced Back to Clash Against Rajasthan Royals

The injury took place in CSK’s match against Rajasthan Royals on March 30 in Guwahati. Gaikwad was hit on his uncovered elbow by a ball from Tushar Deshpande in the second over when CSK were chasing 183 runs. Gaikwad played the subsequent two matches against Delhi Capitals and Punjab Kings despite the injury, with no outward signs of unease while batting or in the field.

But there was speculation when MS Dhoni was spotted captaining the team in later matches, allegedly because of doubts over Gaikwad’s elbow.

Gaikwad’s Performance Prior to Injury

Prior to his departure from the tournament, Gaikwad played five games for CSK this season, making two half-centuries batting at the No. 3 spot.

History Repeats as Dhoni Takes Over Captaincy Mid-Season

This is not the first time that Dhoni took over captaincy mid-season. In IPL 2022, Dhoni reclaimed captaincy from Ravindra Jadeja when the campaign was going through a miserable start. The 2025 season has repeated those fortunes with CSK sitting at No.9 of the points table so far with four consecutive losses.

Dhoni’s return as captain comes with high expectations. Over the years, under his leadership, CSK has not only clinched five IPL titles (2010, 2011, 2018, 2021, and 2023) but also secured two Champions League trophies, thereby cementing his legacy as one of the most successful captains in T20 history.

MS Dhoni Addresses IPL Retirement Rumours Amid Widespread Speculation

April 7, 2025, 3:00 am

Chennai Super Kings’ veteran MS Dhoni has spoken out against the swirling rumors about his possible retirement from the Indian Premier League (IPL). Speculation mounted after CSK’s recent defeat to Delhi Capitals, with fans and pundits wondering if this might be the last season for the 43-year-old stalwart.

Commenting on a Raj Shamani podcast, Dhoni explained that he hasn’t finalized anything yet and is keeping it one year at a time.

“I am still playing the IPL and one year at a time. I am 43, by the end of this IPL season, I will be 44 in July. So I have 10 months to decide whether I want to play one more year and it’s not me deciding; it’s my body, whether you can play or not,” Dhoni said.

Decision deferred till post-season

Dhoni said that once the 2025 IPL season concludes in May, he will take the next 10 months to determine if he will return to the field in 2026. He clarified that the decision will be based mainly on his physical state and not personal choice.

Good behind the stumps, but doubts over batting

While Dhoni has also been in top-notch physical condition and having quick wicket-keeping reflexes, his batting has been disappointing this season. Though got out only once in four games till date, the erstwhile CSK skipper has failed to make any major contribution with the bat.

In the game against Delhi Capitals, Dhoni contributed 30 runs off 26 balls, but his performance could not save CSK from being defeated by 50 runs. The team has won just one of its first four games, and there are fears over their playoffs prospects.

CSK’s campaign remains on the balance

As CSK look to revive their IPL 2025 campaign, Dhoni’s role remains pivotal. While his leadership and keeping skills continue to inspire fans and teammates alike, his future as a player will hinge on how well his body holds up over the next year.

For now, Dhoni has put the retirement talk to rest, reaffirming that any decision about his IPL future will not be rushed.

If Dhoni’s Knees Won’t Let Him Bat Long, Why Don’t CSK Just Retire Him Out?

April 6, 2025, 2:06 pm

In contemporary T20 cricket, the “entry point” has become as popular as the reverse sweep or carrom ball. It describes the precise time a batter emerges to the middle—a malleable term in this version, particularly for the replacements who bat after the openers.

For Chennai Super Kings legend and ex-India captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni, this ‘entry point’ has become a subject of intense debate during the current Season 18 of the Indian Premier League. Dhoni, now 43 years old, has been turning up very late, at No. 9 against Royal Challengers Bengaluru, when CSK required an unlikely 98 off 26 balls, and at No. 7 in the subsequent two matches.

But on both occasions, he came in when the game was practically beyond recovery. Against Rajasthan Royals, the challenge was to score 54 off 25 balls. Against Delhi Capitals at Chepauk, the challenge was even greater—110 off 56 balls. As could be expected, CSK failed both times.

The bigger picture? Five-time champions CSK, who ruled between 2018 and 2023, have now lost three consecutive matches following their initial win against Mumbai Indians. Their downfall is driven primarily by poor starts and a slow, old-fashioned style of play. The team has the poorest Powerplay strike rate, scoring only 7.5 runs per over, nearly four runs short of table-toppers Rajasthan Royals. To add insult to injury, CSK have lost eight wickets in the Powerplay across four matches, scoring 11, 8, 0, and 14 off their first wicket while chasing.

So, the question is: if the top order is not doing the job and Dhoni is coming in too late to make a difference, why not push him up the order or even up to No. 3?

In T20s, the batting number is much less important than how many overs are remaining. CSK head coach Stephen Fleming has been quoted as saying, “It’s a time thing—MS judges it. His knees aren’t what they used to be. He’s moving OK, but there’s still an attrition aspect to it.”

But there is an argument to be made. Allowing Dhoni to bat in the Powerplay, when fielding restrictions create openings and fewer outfielders, might play to his strengths. Particularly because Dhoni is better against pace than spin—he excels when bowlers give him the pace to work with. It might be the ideal window to exploit the fast bowlers in the early stages.

Even if Dhoni can’t finish the distance because of physical fatigue, he could retire around the 10th over, paving the way for younger, fresher legs to take the reins. If he’s set and wants to carry on? Even better. The plus is huge, and the risk is minimal—particularly when the present top-order has not clicked. As things are, Dhoni wouldn’t be upsetting a working unit.

This may be an unusual step, sure. But as the saying goes, desperate times call for desperate measures—and this one just might make cricketing sense.

Stephen Fleming Reacts: “It Was Tough To Watch” MS Dhoni

April 6, 2025, 10:30 am

Chennai Super Kings head coach Stephen Fleming said MS Dhoni is “still going strong” and putting an end to the former skipper’s run in the IPL is not a role assigned to him. The presence of Dhoni’s parents Pan Singh and Devaki Devi at the Chepauk for CSK’s match against Delhi Capitals on Saturday had fuelled speculation about an imminent his retirement. “No, that’s not my role to put an end to it. I have no idea. I’m just enjoying working with him. He’s still going strong. I don’t even ask these days. You guys are the ones that ask (about retirement),” said Fleming in the post-match press conference.

Batting Position Of MS Dhoni Under Scrutiny

The move to play Dhoni at No. 9 was heavily criticized. While on Saturday the cricketing legend came out at No. 7 but could not muster any sort of momentum in his 26-ball 30. Resulting in CSK losing the game by 25 runs, their third consecutive loss in the season.

Conditions Made Batting Difficult, Says Stephen Fleming

Stephen Fleming did not notice Dhoni arriving in the 11th over as a damage limitation ploy and asserted batting at that point was pretty difficult.”The intent was there. When he went out, I think the ball started to grip a little bit more. We understood it was going to be good for the first half and then gradually get slower. So, we were keen to bat and then take pace with the ball” Fleming stated.

“They did it really well. Vijay Shankar struggled to get timings all the way through his innings. But that period from 12 to 16 overs was difficult for all. It was tough to watch and certainly tough to be out there. So the game was just slipping away, and even with intent and different methods to do it, it was just too big a scale,” said Fleming.

Stephen Fleming Says CSK’s Batting Needs to Step Up

Yet Fleming conceded that CSK must get better performances from the bat, and they haven’t actually taken advantage of what is available within their ranks.

“We are focusing still very hard on bowling-wise to restrict teams but we do need to be better with the bat, We need to have one or two players in form, predominantly the top three or four. “We need a bit more production there, and that then allows the power hitters to finish off to come in at the right spots. Here, we’re having to introduce players just not quite at the right time said Fleming.

“We’ve got Dube as well, who’s close, but just not quite getting the job done. So there are thereabouts, but six to 20 to 15-run losses are annoying,” he noted.

Hemng Badani Pats KL Rahul

Delhi Capitals’ experienced batter KL Rahul did not give CSK left-arm wrist-spinner Noor Ahmad a chance to settle down, and DC head coach Hemang Badani acknowledged it was one of the main reasons his side won.

“Rahul was clear enough that he was not going to let Noor settle down because he felt that Noor was somebody who was a crucial bowler for CSK” Badani said.

Badani stated “He wanted to make sure that once you put the opposition’s best bowler down, it becomes difficult for the opposition to keep coming back after that.” Rahul opened the innings for DC against CSK much against his middle-order slot in recent times, and Badani said the right-hander has the experience to tackle such shuffles.

KL Rahul’s Versatility Praised by Badani

“He is somebody who has been around long enough to understand the need of the hour, KL has opened for India. He has batted at 4-5 in the recently concluded Champions Trophy” Badani highlighted.

Badani said “So I genuinely don’t think it’s difficult for someone of his calibre, If I had to make someone else do that, then I completely get your point that it’s not easy for a batter to shift” on KL’s batting position switch.

Badani stated “But I think he has got the calibre, the mindset, the understanding of the game to go up the order or bat at number 4,” highlighting KL’s versatility as a batter.

MS Dhoni’s Finishing Fails to Fire, Leaves CSK Facing Tough Decisions in IPL 2025

April 6, 2025, 1:20 am

MS Dhoni still hears thunderous appreciation whenever he walks onto the pitch to bat, but his match contributions have yet to match anticipation. In the Chennai Super Kings’ 25-run defeat by Delhi Capitals, their third defeat on the trot in IPL 2025, Dhoni achieved an unbeaten 30 of 26 deliveries. Although the score appears dignified, it didn’t aid CSK much in their attempt to chase down 184.

As the needed run rate continued to rise—at one stage going past 24 runs an over—Dhoni did not show his signature aggression. The 43-year-old only tried big shots towards the end, by which time the game was already out of CSK’s hands. Having come in in the 11th over, he depended too much on singles and dot balls, lacking the desperation the situation required.

Nostalgia Over Impact

Since the introduction of the Impact Player rule, Dhoni’s presence has been more symbolic than strategic. Fans still roar with excitement every time he appears, but his role often feels like a farewell tour. Remarkably, Dhoni hasn’t hit a single six in a winning cause since IPL 2023.

Against Delhi, he and Vijay Shankar contributed an unbroken 84-run stand, but their meek attitude placed CSK too far behind while chasing. Even against Royal Challengers Bengaluru, Dhoni was promoted at No. 9 when the match was lost, but fans were excited to witness him play a few fours.

Patterns of Passive Play

In Guwahati against Rajasthan Royals, CSK once again got an opportunity to get Dhoni in early when Shankar was dismissed in the 12th over. Ravindra Jadeja was sent up instead. Dhoni arrived with 54 runs to be scored off 25 balls and gave no evident indication that he was interested in chasing down the target. His strategy was still conservative even as the game drifted away.

A Franchise at the Crossroads

CSK is now stranded in the second half of the IPL points table with hopes of playoffs fading. With younger talent waiting to take the stage, Dhoni’s ongoing place in the XI presents a problem. His utility is confined to glove work and tactical advice, since his batting is no longer producing match-winning magic.

While his record as CSK’s talisman is intact, the franchise might have to make difficult choices in the times ahead. In a league that survives and prospers on form and intent, sentimentality can cost more than just games.

MS Dhoni Faces Backlash as Slow Innings Sparks Retirement Calls: Fans Say It’s ‘Hurting His Legacy’

April 5, 2025, 11:52 pm

Chennai Super Kings suffered their third defeat in four matches in IPL 2025 when they were outplayed by 25 runs by Delhi Capitals at Chepauk on Saturday. Though MS Dhoni came in at a crucial stage of the run-chase, the veteran CSK captain could not change the course of the game for the team.

Chasing 184, CSK were 74/5 when Dhoni came in during the 11th over. He was the lone seasoned batsman left in the side and was due to lead a turnaround. Instead, his remarkably conservative strategy raised eyebrows, with supporters terming it a primary cause of CSK’s loss.

Dhoni’s knock generates more questions than answers

Dhoni was unbeaten on 30 off 26 balls, but his innings were not as urgent as the situation required. With the needed run rate increasing at a very fast pace, the 42-year-old scored only 13 runs from his first 18 balls — singles and a couple of doubles.

His partner, Vijay Shankar, too found it difficult to push along, though he had already faced a long time at the crease. The pair shared the strike in the middle overs but boundaries were few, and the asking rate shot up to well over 22 runs per over by the 18th.

Dhoni discovered rhythm only in the last two overs, hitting a four off backward point and a six over long-on. But by then, the game had already shifted heavily in Delhi’s favor. With 64 required off the last three overs, CSK‘s chances of a turnaround were over in no time.

Fan outrage and increasing controversy about Dhoni’s future

CSK fans, though happy to see Dhoni again at the crease at Chepauk, took to social media to express their dismay. The veterans’ decision to take the chase deep without aggressive batting initially raised several questions in many people’s minds.

Calls for his retirement have grown louder since the match. Fans criticised Dhoni’s approach, arguing that it not only cost the team a winnable game but also hinted at a diminishing impact on the field.

A pattern repeating this season

This isn’t the first time this season that Dhoni’s batting position or approach has come under scrutiny. In CSK’s earlier loss to Royal Challengers Bengaluru, he walked out to bat at No. 9 despite the team facing a massive total. That match ended in a 50-run defeat.

With the recent defeat against DC, Chennai are now eighth in the IPL 2025 points table with only two points from four games and a Net Run Rate (NRR) of -0.851.

Pressure mounts on CSK as tournament goes on

Dhoni’s position in the team and his game plan have now become the main points of discussion. Although his experience is still priceless, fans and pundits alike are wondering if his conservatism is now damaging the team.

As CSK try to get their campaign back on track, they’ll have to re-evaluate their middle-order plans—and whether Dhoni’s presence still gives them the advantage they’ve always depended on.

CSK vs DC: Why Abishek Porel Was Replaced by KL Rahul Behind the Stumps? Here’s the Real Reason

April 5, 2025, 7:08 pm

In the intense IPL 2025 match between Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and Delhi Capitals (DC) at Chepauk, the Men in Yellow were in trouble early while pursuing a tough target of 184. CSK lost two important wickets within the powerplay, courtesy of a scorching opening by Mukesh Kumar and Mitchell Starc.

Kumar drew first blood, and Starc sealed the deal by sending CSK captain Ruturaj Gaikwad packing in his second over. But what followed was of interest to the fans and also led to a small controversy.

Starc’s Missed Opportunity and Porel’s Critical Call

On the fifth ball of the third over, Starc let out a precise yorker that struck Vijay Shankar’s foot. The Australians appealed loudly, but the on-field umpire was not impressed. Starc was sure of an LBW and turned to wicketkeeper Abishek Porel for assistance.

However, in a bizarre move, Porel kept insisting there was an inside edge and cautioned acting captain Axar Patel against going for the review. The camera footage had different tales to tell. Replays indicated that there was no chance of the bat making contact, and the ball would have crashed into the stumps—an unconditional plumb LBW that might have given DC a huge advantage.

Seconds after the over ended, cameras rolled in to capture KL Rahul wearing the gloves behind the stumps instead of Porel—eliciting a media storm online.

Was Porel Punished? Here’s the Reality

Though fans thought that Porel was taken out of wicketkeeping responsibilities as a result of his error, the reality is quite different. KL Rahul, DC’s appointed wicketkeeper, was away from the field at the beginning of CSK’s innings. In his absence, Porel took up the role of a substitute behind the stumps.

After Rahul’s return, he automatically took back his wicket-keeping job. Hence, Porel wasn’t dropped or penalized; the move was situational and pre-decided.

For Starc, of course, he would feel a bit unfortunate, but DC’s bowling line-up continued to put pressure on CSK in a pivotal encounter at the Chepauk.