In Monday’s IPL 2025 encounter in Lucknow, MS Dhoni gave the Chennai Super Kings a historic innings against the Lucknow Super Giants. With four fours and one six, the CSK captain scored 26* off 11 balls. CSK was able to chase down the 167-run target in 19.3 overs because to the cameo. In the opening innings, he also produced a fantastic run out. Following CSK’s five-wicket victory, MS Dhoni was later observed limping. The images worried the internet.
After Chennai Super Kings ended a five-match losing streak, former India all-rounder Sanjay Bangar gave some insight into MS Dhoni’s physical state and finishing prowess, saying the wicketkeeper “found the strength to come out and perform” even though he wasn’t in his best physical form.
CSK got off to a great start in the chase of 167 thanks to Rachin Ravindra and debutant Shaik Rashid, but the spinners from the Lucknow Super Giants quickly gained the upper hand. Shivam Dube’s 37-ball 43 not out and Dhoni’s lightning-fast 26 not out off just 11 balls, however, gave CSK a much-needed burst that turned the tide of the match in their favour and helped them defeat LSG by five wickets in Lucknow.
“MS Dhoni’s physical condition wasn’t at its peak. He began to stagger a little as he collected balls down the leg side towards the end of the innings. Nevertheless, he persevered and mustered the courage to step out and give the performance he did. He was straining, not running smoothly between the wickets. However, he maintained his composure and managed to patch up that collaboration.
“The likelihood of (the opposition) making a mistake rises as it becomes closer and more challenging. Bangar stated on JioHotstar, “That’s where MS Dhoni is so good—he sneaks it in towards the very end and finished the match brilliantly, snatching victory from the Lucknow Super Giants.”
The importance of Dhoni’s presence at the crease was also discussed by former India pacer Varun Aaron, who stated, “Having MS Dhoni at the crease is priceless, especially towards the end.” I believe that it was one of those occasions where he had a realistic goal to meet from the top order, particularly the first two.
“The lower order was receiving ridiculous targets in the previous games, needing 14–15 runs per over, which isn’t something that happens very often. However, that was a very attainable goal today. And MS Dhoni will almost certainly get there if you give him that.
“Towards the end, the bowlers for the Lucknow Super Giants bowled one-dimensionally; they only attempted wide lines, failed to attempt a bouncer, and failed to attempt a decent slow ball outside the off stump. They were not up to par. They would suffer if they don’t give Ravi Bishnoi that over,” he continued.
