In the ongoing IPL 2025 clash between Rajasthan Royals (RR) and Chennai Super Kings (CSK), Chennai posted a competitive total of 187 for 8 in their 20 overs. But what looked like a score headed past the 200-run mark fell short, largely due to a quiet finish in the death overs. Much of the attention fell on veteran MS Dhoni, who failed to deliver his trademark explosive finish and was dismissed at a crucial moment in the 20th over.
Coming in at number eight, Dhoni managed 16 runs off 17 balls at a strike rate of just 94.11. He struck one six but otherwise struggled to rotate the strike or accelerate when it mattered most. His innings ended on the fifth delivery of the final over when he attempted a paddle sweep but was caught sharply by Tushar Deshpande at short fine leg. With his dismissal, CSK’s hopes of a 200+ finish faded.
CSK’s innings didn’t get off to the best start either. They suffered early setbacks, losing Devon Conway and Urvil Patel in quick succession during the second over. Conway scored 10 off eight balls before falling, and Urvil was dismissed for a duck, putting CSK under early pressure.
MS Dhoni has scored in 196 runs in 13 matches at an average of 24.50
However, young Ayush Mhatre came to the rescue with an aggressive knock. He scored a quick 43 off just 20 balls, injecting momentum into the innings. Dewald Brevis also played a significant role with a fluent 42 off 25 deliveries, while Shivam Dube added a stabilising 39 from 32 balls. Their partnerships helped rebuild the innings and set the platform for a strong finish, which unfortunately didn’t materialise.
On the bowling front, Rajasthan Royals kept their composure. Yudhvir Singh and Akash Madhwal led the charge with three wickets each, delivering disciplined spells that kept CSK in check during key phases. Tushar Deshpande and Wanindu Hasaranga also chipped in with one wicket apiece, with Deshpande’s catch to dismiss Dhoni proving vital in the final over.
Despite the criticism for his slow scoring rate today, MS Dhoni continues to enjoy a loyal fan base and remains an influential figure in the CSK setup. In the 2025 season so far, the 42-year-old wicketkeeper-batter has featured in 13 matches, scoring 196 runs at an average of 24.50 and a strike rate of 135.17. His tally includes 12 fours and 12 sixes, reflecting his continued ability to find the boundary, though his consistency under pressure has seen some dip.
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